Diamond Buying Guide
Diamonds are evaluated using the 4Cs: Cut, Color, Clarity, and Carat weight.
Cut
Cut determines how well a diamond sparkles. Grades from best to lowest:
- Excellent/Ideal - Maximum brilliance and fire
- Very Good - Exceptional light reflection
- Good - Reflects most light
- Fair/Poor - Less brilliance
We recommend Excellent or Very Good cuts for engagement rings.
Color
Color grades range from D (colorless) to Z (light yellow):
- D-F - Colorless (premium)
- G-J - Near colorless (great value)
- K-M - Faint yellow
G-H grade offers excellent value with no visible color.
Clarity
Clarity measures internal imperfections (inclusions):
- FL/IF - Flawless (very rare)
- VVS1/VVS2 - Very Very Slightly Included
- VS1/VS2 - Very Slightly Included (great choice)
- SI1/SI2 - Slightly Included (budget-friendly)
Carat Weight
Carat measures the diamond's weight:
- 1 carat = 0.2 grams
- Larger diamonds are exponentially rarer and more expensive
Certification
Always insist on certified diamonds:
- GIA - Gemological Institute of America
- IGI - International Gemological Institute
- AGS - American Gem Society