You have finally reached the point in your relationship in Clarcona 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 Clarcona , 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 Clarcona 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.
Clarcona How to Buy a Diamond And The 4 Biggest Mistakes When Buying a Diamond
Not all vendors offer diamond grading lab records (aka ruby quality reports) to their consumers. So my basic suggestions to you is to keep your money in your pocket when managing such jewelry experts.
Just acquire a diamond interaction ring if it has the original diamond quality record.
A laboratory report is an independent examination of the 4Cs of a loosened ruby as well as includes an outlined representation of the stone's quality characteristics and a graphic depiction of the rock's proportions. Having such a report enables you to compare diamonds of various top qualities as well as inevitably assists you make a more notified buying decision.
A retailer may reduce edges and not provide a lab report or an unethical vendor might give a phony one due to the moment, difficulty as well as cost he'll bear to obtaining a rock rated.
Yeah - there is a rate for grading a ruby (though that price is at some point paid by the customer), plus the shipping as well as insurance coverage fees for sending the diamond to the lab. And also let us not forget the chance price of a jewelry expert not having the ruby in his shop available for sale for a few weeks while the grading takes place.
Nevertheless, a diamond rating report could additionally not be available due to the fact that the costs to obtaining one could affect as well heavily on the last cost of the ring. As an example, a 0.3 ct diamond ring setting you back $250 state, could cost around $75 to be graded and have the record number inscribed on the girdle on the diamond. As you look for that optimal ruby involvement ring for your sweetie, you'll discover that there is a hodgepodge of laboratories declaring to give reputable diamond rating records. However I would only put my loan on ...
The Premier Diamond Grading Laboratory News
Yes, all ruby high quality records are not produced equal. Within the sector, it is an agreement that the two premier labs are GIA-GTL (Gemological Institute of America's Gem Trade Lab) and the AGS (American Treasure Society Laboratories).
The GCAL (Treasure Certification and also Assurance Lab) likewise uses very regarded reports or "diamond certificates" as they are described by GCAL. The GIA has the strongest international credibility for self-reliance as well as uniformity. As a result of their continuous shade as well as clarity strictness guidelines, the world's largest and most pricey diamonds have actually been sent there for grading years. In 2006, GIA-GTL included a two-dimensional cut grading system for round dazzling diamonds.
AGS makes use of the most strict cut standards in the industry. It utilizes a three-dimensional light performance metric that could quality several diamond forms. Actually, it is the only cut grading system that is acknowledged by the scientific neighborhood.
What is more, its Ruby High quality Record utilizes an unique and exclusive 0 to 10 grading system to evaluate the 4 Cs - a system which is less complicated to comprehend compared to GIA's grading system. Actually, AGS even goes the extra step by equating their 0-10 score scale to various other forms of ranking. For instance, the conventional VS1 diamond quality rating is a 3 on the AGS Ruby Quality File.
Ruby Reporting - The Drawbacks
1. Diamond grading is not standardized or regulated as well as therefore you could come across tier 2 labs that employ looser standards to the rate 1 grading labs discussed above. If you buy a ruby that has actually been rated by a tier 2 laboratory, you might finish up paying extra for a lesser quality diamond. So as an example, a diamond rated a "F" in color at a tier 2 lab may get a G, H, or reduced color ranking at an extra trustworthy laboratory. The market additionally discounts diamonds graded by lower well-known labs by regarding 15-30% or even more. So either you only purchase a ruby rated by a tier 1 laboratory or you approve that you could be acquiring a lower top quality ruby compared to what is mentioned on the record if that ruby is graded by a lesser well-known lab.
2. Lots of large store have massive agreements with lower well-known labs with "softer" diamond grading guidelines. A few of these softer labs placed "suggested substitute values" on the laboratory records - values which are above just what shops intends sell the rubies for. So a sales representative in a chain shop could say to you, "Look at the lot you are obtaining here. We are marketing you this diamond interaction ring for $2500 however the record states that the recommended replacement worth is $4000." Wow - what an offer - NOT! This is why it is better that you rely on just independent rate 1 laboratories.
Additionally keep in mind that reliable ruby rating reports are not evaluations and do not supply appraisal numbers. Diamond evaluations are commonly grossly inflated as well as are not something you'll desire to depend on.
3. Ruby reports are filled with please notes that specify that absolutely nothing is "certified" or ensured which the labs are not accountable for mistakes. Actually, the GIA provides a disclaimer of kinds on their internet site pertaining to the use of words "accredit." The web site claims:
"It is wrong to state that trainees, graduates, their organisations, or certain gemstones are "certified" by GIA. The Gemological Institute of The U.S.A. does not license anyone or anything. Neither a student neither a graduate who has actually been granted a certificate or diploma, neither a treasure which has actually been rated or determined by GIA has been certified by GIA".
So it is feasible that you the consumer is left holding the bag ought to an inaccuracy in a report is later on uncovered. Courts have actually regularly ruled that sellers, not laboratories, are accountable for such mistakes. Why? Due to the fact that the labs suggested in advance that their records couldn't be held accountable.
Thankfully, there are a pair ways to give yourself extra purchaser defense:
A. You can fly to India where jewelry experts provide a lifetime buyback plan to their clients. As well expensive to fly?
B. You can locate among the 20% of US jewelers that market totally adhered rubies. These are rubies that are marketed with lifetime damage, life time trade-in as well as lifetime buyback policies.
C. Not as good a remedy as getting a completely bound diamond yet you can get a diamond that comes with an actual "certificate" and not a report. "Licensed diamonds do feature guaranties" albeit for much shorter periods.
Accreditation Some vendors refer to a "ruby report" as a "certified ruby" however technically this is not remedy. From a lawful viewpoint, a ruby record is a just a professional opinion though in reality, elements of a ruby rating record are not just opinions.
For example, a ruby's carat weight (weight) could be properly determined along with its cut grade by gauging its optical effectiveness or by describing a computer system version. A certification on the various other hand is a declaration of fact - a record for which the company accepts lawful obligation and will certainly make restitution to the consumer for mistakes.
Some top ruby grading laboratories use both records and certificates. AGS uses Diamond Quality Documents (non-certified reports) and Diamond Top quality Certificates. Diamond High quality Certificates are ready specifically for AGS retail jewelers as well as uses guaranties from getting involved American Gem Society participant shops.
GCAL accredits it's diamond grading additionally. Its 100% money-back assurance plan stands for a duration of 2 years from the date on the applicable certificate. This plan makes sure the precision of the cut, color as well as quality qualities and the carat weight.
A record or certification need to will have a number on it that could or might not be inscribed on a diamond. You will certainly have the ability to go into that number on the web site of the licensing laboratory to inspect a record's validity.
Elements Of A Diamond Grading Record Diamond grading reports are always evolving however certain element should remain the same. For circumstances, the:
The Record #. This number is given and recorded in a laboratory's document as well as might or may not be inscribed on a ruby's band. You can go into the report number on a grading laboratory's web site to inspect the authenticity of the diamond quality report or to obtain even more details regarding the ruby. Forming & Element Style: This is the outline and the cutting design used for the facet arrangement. There are 3 basic facet styles - "brilliant cut, step cut and also mixed reducing style" and also 12 standard forms that include notables such as round brilliant and also princess cut" rubies.
Measurements: This describes size (not weight) of a diamond. Size includes dimensions such as size, width, weight and also size. A dimension is typically listed to the hundredth of a millimeter. Measurements play a huge role in how a diamond sparkles.
Carat weight Weight: The weight of a diamond is measured to the hundredth of a carat weight and some also give such measure to the thousandth of a carat weight (1.123 ct.). Carat weight is one of the most objective as well as the most convenient to recognize of the 4Cs since all one has to do is weight the rock. Shade Quality: This informs you the degree of color absence in the ruby. The less shade the higher the grade.
Diamonds are normally rated from D-Z; the closer to "D" the whiter the diamond. You should never see ruby color array such as (G-H, I-J-K, and so forth) on a diamond report. You ought to just see shade varieties on appraisals for stones that are mounted.
Clarity Quality: Practically every diamond has actually inner blemishes called inclusions as well as outside flaws called blemishes. A diamond is rated according to the dimension, type, location and amount of these defects.
Clearness qualities range from Flawless (FL) - Consisted Of. Labs utilize a couple specialists to grade the quality of a diamond in order to create a much more accurate reading.
Cut Grade: A lot more current ruby reports consist of a cut quality for common round dazzling rubies. Cut considers the radiance, fire and also scintillation of the ruby. Cut quality varies from Exceptional - Poor.
Other elements you might stumble upon on a diamond record include the polish, symmetry, fluorescence as well as proportion. Armed with this details, you are better able making an assessment of the top quality of ruby that is mounted in an engagement ring.
What Are Shade Improved Diamonds and Are They For You?
Clarcona
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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