You have finally reached the point in your relationship in Ona where you are ready to make a lifetime commitment. It does not matter whether you have been planning the special day for months or just a couple of days. The story of how you proposed and how beautiful the diamond engagement ring or wedding ring was will go on for months. As such, before heading to the jewelry store to buy this precious bond of diamond, it helps to know that you are making the best choice. Here is what to look for when seeking precious diamonds for wedding rings or engagement rings:
Understand the 4 C’s
These are the globally accepted standards for describing diamonds. The 4C’s include:
(i) Diamond color
Diamonds come from range D (colorless) to range Z (Strong yellow tint). With colorless diamonds being most expensive, they are also the most durable. When looking for precious diamonds, take the diamond outside to see its natural light. This will give you a better, sense of its color as opposed to viewing it under a day lamp. Remember, there are also jewelers who use lighting that makes the diamonds brighter than it really is. Diamonds have different prices depending on their color.
(ii) Diamond Carat
The carat relates to the weight of the diamond. The prices of diamond also vary depending on their weight. If you are looking to still save money for the big day, opt for an impressive number of diamond carats that is closest to your budget
(iii) Diamond clarity
Diamonds have clarity that ranges from flawless to heavy. With only a few of the world’s diamonds being flawless, the rest have characteristics of clarity that they adopted during their formation. Reducing your diamond’s clarity is the best saving technique.
(iv) Diamond cut
The cut is the most important element of diamonds for wedding rings and engagement rings. While shape may refer to round, priceless, cushion or pear, the cut simply showcases the crafting of the diamond from its rough state. The scale grade for diamonds ranges from excellent to very good all the way down to poor. Only disappointed in the long run.
Consider the diamond certificate
It is best to ensure that the diamonds you choose for your wedding ring or engagement ring has been verified by an independent third party. The certificate simply tells you that the 4 C’s are up to standard. Although it is possible to purchase a diamond that has not been certified, the risk is that the color may not be exactly what the jeweler tells you.
Go for suitable ring style
Different shapes of diamonds will compliment your hand in unique ways . For instance, a diamond that is mounted will make your finger appear slimmer. On the other hand, three stone rings are often better suited for shorter fingers. Not all styles will suit your hand. Therefore in Ona , determine what works best for you and your partner.
Know the various types of diamond flaws.
To avoid making a wrong buying decision, it is important to know all the flaws that diamond wedding bands and engagement rings may present. Avoid diamonds that have a rough unpolished surface, any indentation on a flat surface or are irregular shaped. Internal flaws also include a small opening on the surface, inclusions and diamond with a crystal within it.
Getting the right diamond rings in Ona is certainly a breathtaking experience. With the right pick, both you and your partner can enjoy its brilliance and shine many years to come. When seeking diamonds, have an idea of your budget to determine the quality of diamond in your range and try on as many rings as you to ensure you know what you like. Shop wisely.
Ona How to Buy a Diamond And The 4 Biggest Mistakes When Buying a Diamond
Not all sellers provide diamond grading laboratory reports (also known as ruby high quality records) to their customers. So my general suggestions to you is to maintain your cash in your pocket when dealing with such jewelers.
Just purchase a ruby involvement ring if it has the original ruby high quality record.
A laboratory report is an independent examination of the 4Cs of a loose diamond as well as includes an outlined diagram of the stone's clarity features and also a visuals depiction of the rock's proportions. Having such a report enables you to compare diamonds of various qualities and ultimately aids you make a more educated buying decision.
A seller may cut corners and not provide a laboratory record or a deceitful seller could provide a phony one as a result of the moment, trouble as well as expense he'll bear to getting a stone rated.
Yeah - there is a price for grading a diamond (though that expense is eventually paid by the customer), plus the delivery as well as insurance coverage costs for sending out the diamond to the lab. As well as allow us not forget the possibility price of a jewelry expert not having the diamond in his store offer for sale for a couple of weeks while the grading takes place.
However, a diamond grading report might also not be readily available due to the fact that the expenses to obtaining one might influence too greatly on the last price of the ring. For instance, a 0.3 ct diamond ring costing $250 state, could set you back around $75 to be graded as well as have the report number inscribed on the girdle on the diamond. As you look for that perfect diamond involvement ring for your sweetheart, you'll find that there is an alphabet soup of laboratories asserting to give reputable diamond grading reports. Yet I would just put my money on ...
The Premier Diamond Grading Lab Reports
Yes, all diamond high quality reports are not produced equal. Within the sector, it is a consensus that the 2 leading labs are GIA-GTL (Gemological Institute of America's Treasure Profession Lab) and also the AGS (American Treasure Society Laboratories).
The GCAL (Treasure Qualification as well as Guarantee Lab) likewise supplies very concerned reports or "diamond certificates" as they are referred to by GCAL. The GIA has the best international online reputation for freedom as well as consistency. Due to their consistent shade and also clarity strictness standards, the globe's largest as well as most expensive diamonds have actually been sent out there for grading years. In 2006, GIA-GTL added a two-dimensional cut grading system for round dazzling diamonds.
AGS makes use of the strictest cut criteria in the market. It uses a three-dimensional light performance metric that could quality a number of diamond forms. In reality, it is the only cut grading system that is recognized by the scientific neighborhood.
Exactly what is more, its Diamond Top quality Record utilizes an one-of-a-kind and exclusive 0 to 10 grading system to examine the 4 Cs - a system which is easier to comprehend compared to GIA's grading system. Actually, AGS also goes the extra action by equating their 0-10 rating scale to other types of ranking. As an example, the conventional VS1 diamond clearness score is a 3 on the AGS Ruby Quality Record.
Diamond Coverage - The Drawbacks
1. Ruby grading is not standardized or regulated as well as hence you may find rate 2 laboratories that utilize looser standards to the tier 1 grading laboratories stated above. If you get a ruby that has been graded by a tier 2 lab, you might wind up paying much more for a lower quality ruby. So for example, a diamond rated a "F" in shade at a tier 2 laboratory could obtain a G, H, or lower shade score at a much more reliable lab. The industry likewise discounts diamonds graded by lesser recognized labs by about 15-30% or more. So either you only buy a diamond rated by a tier 1 laboratory or you accept that you could be purchasing a minimal top quality diamond compared to what is stated on the report if that diamond is graded by a lesser well-known laboratory.
2. Numerous big store have substantial contracts with minimal recognized labs with "softer" ruby grading guidelines. Some of these softer labs placed "recommended replacement values" on the lab reports - worths which are above exactly what shops means offer the rubies for. So a salesperson in a store might state to you, "Consider the lot you are obtaining right here. We are marketing you this diamond engagement ring for $2500 however the record claims that the suggested substitute value is $4000." Wow - exactly what a bargain - NOT! This is why it is much better that you rely on just independent tier 1 laboratories.
Likewise bear in mind that trustworthy diamond rating reports are not appraisals and also don't offer assessment figures. Diamond appraisals are usually blatantly inflated and are not something you'll intend to count on.
3. Diamond records are filled with please notes that define that nothing is "accredited" or ensured and that the laboratories are not accountable for mistakes. Actually, the GIA provides a disclaimer of sorts on their web site concerning making use of the word "license." The site says:
"It is incorrect to state that students, grads, their services, or specific gemstones are "accredited" by GIA. The Gemological Institute of America does not accredit anyone or anything. Neither a student neither a graduate that has been awarded a certificate or diploma, nor a gem which has actually been graded or identified by GIA has actually been accredited by GIA".
So it is possible that you the consumer is left holding the bag must a mistake in a report is later on found. Courts have often ruled that vendors, not labs, are in charge of such errors. Why? Due to the fact that the laboratories suggested in advance that their reports couldn't be held liable.
Luckily, there are a pair ways to provide yourself more customer defense:
A. You can fly to India where jewelry experts offer a lifetime buyback policy to their consumers. Also expensive to fly?
B. You could discover among the 20% of US jewelers who sell completely adhered diamonds. These are diamonds that are marketed with lifetime damage, lifetime trade-in as well as lifetime buyback policies.
C. Not as good a solution as acquiring a fully bonded diamond yet you might acquire a diamond that features an actual "certificate" and also not a report. "Qualified diamonds do have guaranties" albeit for much shorter durations.
Qualification Some sellers describe a "diamond record" as a "licensed ruby" yet practically this is not deal with. From a lawful viewpoint, a ruby report is a just a professional opinion though in reality, elements of a diamond grading report are not simply viewpoints.
For instance, a ruby's carat (weight) can be accurately identified in addition to its cut grade by determining its optical performance or by referring to a computer version. A certificate on the other hand is a declaration of fact - a paper for which the company approves legal duty and also will certainly make restitution to the customer for errors.
Some top diamond grading labs offer both records and certificates. AGS uses Ruby High quality Papers (non-certified records) as well as Ruby Quality Certificates. Diamond Quality Certificates are ready exclusively for AGS retail jewelry experts and also uses guaranties from participating American Treasure Culture participant stores.
GCAL accredits it's ruby grading likewise. Its 100% money-back warranty policy stands for a period of 2 years from the day on the suitable certification. This plan makes certain the precision of the cut, color as well as clearness qualities as well as the carat weight.
A report or certificate should will have a number on it that may or could not be engraved on a diamond. You will certainly be able to go into that number on the site of the licensing lab to check a record's validity.
Elements Of A Ruby Grading Record Ruby grading reports are always progressing but certain aspect needs to stay the same. For example, the:
The Report #. This number is offered and also taped in a laboratory's record and may or may not be etched on a diamond's band. You can go into the report number on a rating laboratory's website to check the authenticity of the ruby high quality report or to obtain more info concerning the ruby. Forming & Facet Design: This is the overview and also the reducing design used for the aspect arrangement. There are 3 standard aspect designs - "fantastic cut, action cut and mixed cutting style" and 12 basic forms that include notables such as round brilliant and princess cut" diamonds.
Dimensions: This describes dimension (not weight) of a diamond. Size consists of measurements such as size, size, weight and size. A measurement is typically noted to the hundredth of a millimeter. Measurements play a massive role in just how a ruby glows.
Carat Weight: The weight of a diamond is gauged to the hundredth of a carat and also some also provide such procedure to the thousandth of a carat weight (1.123 ct.). Carat is one of the most unbiased and also the easiest to recognize of the 4Cs because all one has to do is weight the stone. Shade Quality: This informs you the level of color lack in the ruby. The less shade the higher the grade.
Diamonds are generally rated from D-Z; the closer to "D" the whiter the ruby. You must never ever see diamond shade range such as (G-H, I-J-K, and also so on) on a ruby record. You should just see shade varieties on assessments for stones that are mounted.
Clarity Quality: Practically every diamond has inner flaws called inclusions as well as exterior flaws called acnes. A diamond is graded according to the size, kind, place and quantity of these flaws.
Clarity grades range from Flawless (FL) - Consisted Of. Labs utilize a couple specialists to quality the quality of a ruby in order to create a more precise analysis.
Cut Grade: More current diamond reports consist of a cut quality for standard round great diamonds. Cut takes into factor to consider the sparkle, fire and also scintillation of the ruby. Cut quality ranges from Excellent - Poor.
Other elements you could encounter on a diamond report include the gloss, balance, fluorescence as well as proportion. Equipped with this info, you are much better able to earn an evaluation of the high quality of diamond that is mounted in an involvement ring.
What You Should Know When Buying a Diamond Ring
Ona
In an ideal world with unlimited budgets and an infinite supply of diamonds, everyone would have beautifully cut "D Flawless" diamonds. In the real world every diamond is unique. There are plenty of gorgeous diamonds to go around - you just need to know how to find one. Choosing a diamond is about balancing several factors to make the most of your budget. Each factor contributes to the beauty and prestige of your diamond. I will explain these factors so you will be prepared to make an informed decision about your diamond purchase.
FACTOR 1: CARAT WEIGHT
People often use the word Carat when discussing how big a diamond is, however "Carat" actually refers to the weight of a diamond. There is no rule as to what carat weight you should buy, but you'll doubtless have heard that "bigger is better." If you ask me, I think bigger is great but you shouldn't forget about the other aspects of a diamond's quality.
A useful tip: if you're looking at Certified Diamonds, you may find it valuable to compare the diameters of different diamonds. Since every diamond is individually cut, some may appear larger than others of the same weight.
FACTOR 2: SHAPE
Approximately 75% of diamonds sold worldwide are Round Brilliants. Rounds diamonds are the most popular, most brilliant, and most expensive. If you are purchasing a diamond as a surprise, Round Brilliant is generally your safest bet.
There is no real hierarchy of shapes being better or worse - it is truly a matter of personal preference. Princess Cuts are the second most popular, and a classic alternative to round diamonds. Cushion Cuts are trendy and have a beautiful vintage look. If you want something different but not too crazy, try an Oval Cut, Asscher Cut, or Radiant Cut diamond.
While no shape is better, there are some significant differences between shapes. Take for example, the radiant cut vs the emerald cut. Though they are a similar shape, the extra facets of the radiant cut give it additional fire and sparkle. If you prefer the emerald cut's understated elegance, consider that it's easier to spot any imperfections and select a higher clarity grade.
Another tip: Diamonds (even round diamonds) may not be perfectly symmetrical. It's nothing to worry about if your diamond's width does not precisely match its height, but if your diamond is much longer than it is wide it may not be what you're expecting. This is especially the case in shapes like Cushion and Oval, where a more asymmetrical diamond might look "skinny", with much of the fire and brilliance concentrated at the ends.
FACTOR 3: CUT
"Cut" refers to a diamond's finish and proportions, and is critical in determining its beauty. Getting the angles right ensures a beautiful diamond that's full of life. In many cases it can be more difficult to spot flaws in a fiery, brilliant diamond. Cut is generally graded in five categories: Poor, Fair, Good, Very Good, and Excellent. Excellent is the highest graded awarded by GIA (whereas other labs may use terms like "ideal" or numbers like "0"). If you want to play safe, stick to "Very Good" and "Excellent" cuts when you choose your diamond.
FACTOR 4: CLARITY
Almost all diamonds have naturally¬ occurring features called "inclusions." Inclusions form as the diamond crystallizes deep underground, and they are unique to each diamond. They take many different forms, and can help you identify a diamond as your own. However, large and prominent inclusions can detract from the beauty of a diamond.
There are many different types of inclusions, and not all are created equal. If your diamond certificate has an "inclusion map," check where the inclusions are. Try to find a diamond with inclusions near the edge where they will be masked by sparkle or hidden by the setting of your diamond. If your budget is limited, I recommend buying "SI" clarity or better. "SI" stands for "Slightly Included." With close inspection you can usually spot the inclusions in an SI¬ graded diamond, but these inclusions will most likely not be visible once your diamond is set in jewellery. If you want to be sure your diamond will look "eye clean", even up close, I recommend selecting a VS2 clarity diamond or better. "VS" stands for "Very Slight Inclusion," and imperfections in VS clarity stones are rarely seen by the naked eye.
FACTOR 5: COLOUR
The term "colour" usually refers to how much warm tint is in a diamond. The scale ranges from D (colorless) to Z (very strongly tinted yellow or brown). Pure white diamonds are considered more desirable, and are more expensive. Warmer¬-hued diamonds (such as K, L, and M) are not necessarily less attractive, but they are significantly less valuable.
Conventional wisdom is to select J colour or better. Personally, I love G and H colour diamonds ¬- they hit the "sweet spot" where most people will not notice colour in the diamond unless they're doing a direct comparison. However, an I or J colour diamond that is well cut and has a lot of life can give you a beautiful diamond at a bargain price.
Depending on how they are cut, different diamonds will display colour differently. This is why colour grades are assigned by looking at a diamond upside¬down. Generally, more¬ brilliant diamonds show their colour less than less brilliant diamonds.
FACTOR 6: FLUORESCENCE
Fluorescence has a bad rep, and most of it is unfair. Diamond Fluorescence refers to how a diamond responds when subjected to ultra¬violet light. Fluorescent diamonds can glow any one of several colours, but the most common is blue. In rare cases fluorescence can cause your diamond to have a milky appearance when viewed in direct daylight. This is most often the case with strong or very strong fluorescence and D/E/F colour diamonds.
However, there are many, many more cases where blue fluorescence is a positive thing. Imagine you were shining a blue light on a yellow diamond... the blue tint can make your diamond look whiter. If your diamond falls in the "near colourless," "lightly tinted," or "tinted" range I recommend looking for medium blue or faint blue fluorescence.
Warning: Green, red, and yellow fluorescence are rare, and they will not have the same benefit. If you are interested in a diamond that has strong blue, very strong blue, green, red, or yellow fluorescence, I recommend asking your salesperson to show you your diamond outside in natural daylight. If you're buying online, contact the seller prior to making your purchase so they can examine the diamond first in natural daylight.
FACTOR 7: GRADER
This should always be your first question: Says who? Every diamond grading laboratory has different standards, so comparing diamonds graded by different sources is extremely unreliable. One grader might grade a diamond K SI2, and another might call that same diamond F VS2. I know that sounds crazy, but I see it happen all the time.
The most reputable and consistent grading laboratories are GIA, AGS, IGI, and HRD. GIA is considered the global standard worldwide. AGS is a popular alternative in the U.S.A. while IGI and HRD are more common in Europe.
EGL is tricky because there are EGL labs all over the world, and some of them do a great job while others can be less reliable. We strongly recommend caution when buying an EGL certified diamond unless it's from EGL-¬USA.
Many diamonds are assigned grades by valuation companies and in-¬house graders. If your diamond does not come with a report from a major laboratory, you should always ask where the grader trained. He or she should be certified by a major grading laboratory: GIA, AGS, IGI, or HRD. Be smart and be cautious about reports done by uncertified shop owners, salespeople, or valuation companies.
SELECTING YOUR DIAMOND
You can choose to purchase your diamond online, or from a retail store. If you prefer to purchase your diamond in a retail store, avoid the big chains and shop with smaller independent jewellers. Many independent jewellers are actually significantly less expensive than their large competitors. (You don't have to take my word for it - shop around and you'll quickly learn that this is true). This way you'll buy a better quality diamond and - if you wish - you'll have the opportunity to design your own hand-made engagement ring setting.
If you choose to shop online, I would recommend comparing prices and service across several websites. Be sure that the company ships from your country - otherwise you'll be hit with expensive duty and GST. Always make sure you call or e-mail customer service and have them hand-inspect your diamond before you complete your purchase. Sometimes a diamond may seem like a great deal, but it could have an unfortunate inclusion, asymmetrical cut, or be negatively impacted by fluoresence. And above all, make sure you have an easy and affordable way to return the diamond if it doesn't turn out as you'd hoped. Online shopping is the best way to get a great deal on a diamond for your engagement ring, diamond studs, or pendant - just review this article, be reasonably cautious, and have fun.
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