The Final C: Choosing Your Diamond

Choosing Your Diamond can be a difficult and personal decision. The most important aspect of choosing a diamond is settling upon a Cut and Shape that you will love and finding the quality and confirmation that you feel comfortable with. Choosing a diamond is as important as learning how to buy a diamond. Recognizing the 4 C's when choosing a diamond is essential in finding the perfect diamond to give a lifetime of beauty.

It's all about the Diamond's Cut: The only one of the 4C's that is within man's control is the diamond's cut. It is imperative to know what kind of cut to look for when choosing a diamond. A well cut diamond can fetch up to twice the actual value of the stone. Every couple should understand the "Four C's" (Cut, Color, Clarity and Carat) before choosing a diamond but cut is one of the most important factors when choosing a diamond ring. It is often the one characteristic that is least understood by buyers. The stones can be cut to make them look bigger in size than they are in carat weight and has the most effect on its sparkle, or brilliance. Make sure to read up on CUT in the Diamond Education Section.

Laboratory Grading and Certification: We go to great lengths to make sure our customers have a good understanding of the basics of diamond grading. Every certified diamond receives a grading that describes the Cut, Color, Clarity and Carat of the stone. In most instances, it will also map out any inclusions whether they are visible by the naked eye or not. You will also want to find out which laboratory has issued the certificate. Ask to see the GIA certificate or AGS certificate for your diamond (these are the strictest grading laboratories and are the only ones trusted by Whiteflash.com). However, keep in mind that you are not buying a certificate, you are buying a diamond. Complete instructions on how to read a diamond certificate is also available in the Diamond Education Section.

Just remember that the most important part of choosing a diamond is to choose one that appeals to you personally. Recognizing the 4 C's (especially cut) and the importance of choosing one of the best grading laboratories when choosing a diamond is essential in finding the perfect diamond. A diamond is one of the only purchases that can will last a lifetime and beyond.