Introduction
Congratulations! You’ve found the person you want to spend the rest of your life with.
This is your love story and you’re ready to make it official. Getting engaged is a big step into your future. It’s an exciting time, and it can be overwhelming, too.
Your mind is probably racing. How will you propose? Of course, you’ll want it to exceed her expectations. She’s been dreaming about this moment for a long time. And what about the ring? Your proposal and her dream come true begin with the ring! How do you find the right one? Where do you start? An engagement ring is the first promise of a lifetime, and both will last for a lifetime. An engagement ring is an investment in your relationship, as well as a financial one.
She’s worth it. She’s the one! She looks past what you know are your short comings. Even when she doesn’t agree, she respects you—loves you for who you are. She lets you be you. She sees the heart of the real man in you. She’s one of a kind. You don’t want to mess this one up; you want her to be yours!
Still, you know nothing about purchasing a diamond. Who can you trust to help you? Look no further, here is the ultimate step-by-step guide, with everything you need to know to find the perfect ring for her (and for you!).
This guide contains the most comprehensive information about the process of buying an engagement ring. In your hands right now you are holding “gold,” and it can save you some too, because this book contains all the relevant “wisdom” you might eventually find in an internet search. In here you will find insider expertise from some of the most acclaimed jewelers and gemologists in the USA.
In this book you will have the best, unbiased expertise you can find for making one of the most important and significant purchases of your life. We’ve made thousands of brides and grooms delighted customers for life. They trust Diamond Designs because we give no-hype guidance in how to find the beauty and value of every diamond jewelry purchase.
CHAPTER 1. DETERMINE YOUR RING BUDGET
Determining your budget for this important purchase might be the most difficult thing you will do. These days, people think that money and price equate to a person’s worth and success. That makes this a personal financial decision more difficult because you probably have a budget, and you want a ring you and she will be proud to show. The important thing about an engagement ring purchase is to make sure you get the most value for your money. Your future fiance will love the ring you choose, because it is a gift of your love. It will have lasting sentimental value. To also retain its financial value, make sure you really know what you are investing in, in order to satisfy her and your budget.
There are no rules about how much you should or must spend on a ring. What matters is that you are comfortable with your budget. Financing is always an option, and this book will cover that. Regardless of how you pay for it, having some idea of what you are willing to spend is the best way to help you begin to explore all the ring options available to you.
Decide on Your Budget
Unless you have unlimited funds, you aren’t rushing off to the nearest jewelry store with your credit card. Most likely, you have a dollar limit you need to respect. You don’t need to worry about the old rule of spending two to three month’s income for the ring. Be practical. You shouldn’t put yourself into debt. There will be many options to choose from regardless of your price range.
Either you have savings put aside for this, or you are planning a short-term amount of time to stash some cash. That in itself can help you decide on your budget. If you are considering a credit card purchase, your credit limit may be a factor. If you are going to finance the purchase, you need to have some idea of what you can afford to repay on a monthly basis. Keep in mind your credit score and credit terms will be factors, too.
It might be helpful to know, that generally, the average baseline for an engagement ring is in the $5,000 to $6,000 price range.
If you are thinking of having a ring custom designed, it can cost more, and take more time for the jeweler to create it. Most high quality custom rings take three to six weeks to create.
(include quote from people in the industry)
In considering budget, what you might want think about is what your partner would like, or could be expecting. You may be a couple who have discussed getting engaged. Maybe you’ve been “window shopping” rings and she’s offered you some guidance on what she likes. That can make it much easier when you are shopping.
If not, then perhaps you remember what she said about friend’s ring. You might start by considering if you think she would prefer her ring be “flashy” with a lot of bling” or would she like simple and timeless? Which type do you think will think will reflect her individual style?
Another option is perhaps there is an heirloom ring from her family or yours that would be meaningful to her. The setting would likely need a re-design. That would make it a custom ring, so it would take more time to create. Even with that, it might be a less expensive, one-of-a-kind option.
While you are considering your budget, it would be a good idea to work on finding what size ring she wears.
HER RING SIZE
- If she’s right-handed, her left hand (engagement ring finger) is one-half size smaller than the right!
- U.S. and European size charts are different. That means that in the U.S. size six ring is not the same as the European size six ring.
- Check out this Ring Sizer App ?
If you and your partner have been discussing getting engaged and window shopping rings, she may also have provided you with her ring size. If that’s not the case, you have some sleuthing to do. Because, after all, if this is a surprise proposal, the mere question would tip her off and ruin the entire plan!
Of course, it’s possible to get the ring re-sized after the proposal…but if you are going for maximum impact, wouldn’t it be great if the ring to fit her perfectly when she slips it on for the very first time? Score one big one for you!
So what can you do to find out her ring size? Here are a few ideas that have worked for others.
Borrow One of Hers
If she does wear a ring or rings, perhaps you can use one to those. She may take them off when she washes her hands or at nighttime. That would be the easiest time to “borrow” one for a second. It would be important to know on which finger she wears the ring you are measuring. It might not be her ring finger. Measuring can still help even if it’s not, but you have to remember which of her fingers it is from and remember to tell that to the jeweler.
If you are able to get one of her rings, you can slip it on your pinky finger and note where it fits on you. Look at how far down your finger it goes before it’s too tight? Later, when you visit your jeweler, he or she can use the ring sizer on you to determine the size based on where her ring sat on your finger.
The String Trick
If you can, try this while she’s sleeping (if she’s a very “light” sleeper and wakes easily beware). Get a piece of string, probably about six inches is enough to make it easy for you. While she’s asleep, gently tie the string loosely around her finger— if you make it too tight you won’t be able to slip it off! Remember to choose her left hand ring finger. If for some reason if you can’t get it on her left hand, the right hand will help. Slip the string off (while tied), and bring it with you to the jeweler. Make sure you tell him or her which finger on which hand you actually measured.
Ask a Friend or Family Member
You can try asking her mom, or her sister or best friend. They may know her ring size or know how to find out without asking her. They may likely be able to offer what they know about her style and preferences when it comes to the engagement ring of her dreams.
Make an Educated Guess
If none of these methods are possible or successful, you are left to making an educated guess. Take a moment when you hold her hand to really notice her ring finger. Try putting her open hand up to yours. Try to compare hers to yours in size, especially the width of her fingers in relationship to yours. Are they a lot slimmer, or not too much thinner than yours?
Perhaps it will help you to know that the average female’s ring size is a size six. While “average” is subjective, this may help as a reference in what hers might be in relationship to “average.”
All of this information can help your jeweler guestimate her ring size. If the ring doesn’t fit after all, it can easily be adjusted with a visit to the jeweler after the proposal. The truth is that ring size is not an exact science. Male or female, finger size can fluctuate ½ size depending on the weather or diet.
HER STYLE
Pro Tip
If she knows you’re shopping, have her give you three photos of rings she likes. This will help you and your jeweler identify her style. This way you can choose the ring, keep the element of surprise and get her exactly what she wants!
Perhaps you already know exactly what she is dreaming of for an engagement ring. If you do…you are lucky! If not, remember that she’s going to wear this ring for many years to come. The ring style has to reflect her personal taste and style. That’s why it is so important to determine what that is BEFORE you begin your search for the perfect ring. It might feel like a daunting task to figure this out, but some investigative work may not be as difficult as you might think. Here are some things you can try.
Check out Her Social Media
Social media can be a god send in this investigation. You’d be surprised by what great clues and information she may have there. If you are not familiar with Pinterest, it’s a social media site where she can “pin” her favorite photos, article links and save them for reference at a later date. (Pinterest is an online bulletin board). It is a great resource for capturing things she likes and wants. That most likely will include her dreaming and searching engagement rings. Odds are, her Pinterest board has examples of ring designs she’s “saved for later.” If you can get access to research her account, see if you find any pictures of rings she “pinned” more than once. If you find multiple pictures of the same ring design, she probably adores the design.
Observe the Type of Jewelry She Wears
Have you ever really taken note of the jewelry she wears? Is it yellow gold, or does it look like silver, which can actually be white gold or platinum. Is what she wears simple in design or more ornate. No stones or a single stone is simple, many stones would be more ornate.
Think About Her lifestyle
When she has free time, what does she like to do? Is more inclined to go for a hike or tend to perfectly manicured finger nails and toes? Is she “old fashioned” and loving vintage things? Or does she go for sparkles and what’s on trend. These details will help you to find a ring that matches her style and personality.
If you have absolutely no idea what she would like…don’t panic. In the coming chapters, you will find the information in the chapters ahead, about styles, stones, designs and mountings will also help you know which one is the right ring for her.
CHAPTER 2: WHERE TO SHOP
With your budget in mind and her style identified, where do shop for this important purchase? There is a huge array of ring designs, and an endless list of places to shop.
If you’ve shared your plans with anyone, then by this time, you have probably been on the receiving end of a good deal of advice — the friend who bought online, the cousin who swears by the Diamond District in NYC, the uncle who heard Costco has the best diamonds for the price, or a co-worked who purchased an anniversary ring from a destination stop on her anniversary cruise trip. Maybe, your family has a jeweler they have dealt with for years.
So, if you are feeling confused and overwhelmed, you are on par for this course. The question is, how do you chose the right resource for you? As you consider all options summarized below, you will discover each has its benefits. Some of the deciding factors are your budget and the style of ring, though most engagement ring sellers will have a style to satisfy your needs. What you really need to consider, above all else, is how much guidance will you need to make this emotional purchase, and who do you trust to guide you through it and stand behind the sale?
Big Box or Warehouse Store
Stores like Walmart, JCPenney and Costco are what come to mind in the big box and warehouse category. These big corporate retailers are buying inventory in large quantities, which allows them to command lower costs from their suppliers. It’s how they can offer consumers goods at lower prices than the smaller outlets and the “mom and pop” stores. Big box and warehouse stores pass the savings on to the consumer. When you have researched an item elsewhere and you know exactly what you are getting, it makes total sense to buy it from them and pay less for the same item.
Another advantage of shopping in these stores is convenience. There’s one within driving distance of most anywhere. That often means shopping there frequently, so we come to know what to expect from the service and the experience.
What these retailers lack in the case of purchasing an engagement ring is the selection. Theirs is limited, cash and carry inventory. No expertise, no custom design options. And, they tend to stock lower-priced rings. You choose one— you purchase. Documentation on the stone and guarantees vary.
Mall or Chain Jewelry Stores
Most everyone has heard the tagline set to music, “Every Kiss Begins With Kay.” Stores like Kay Jewelers and Zales are among the most well-known jewelry stores. If you’ve been in a mall, you’ve seen them and probably window shopped them.
Consumers recognize these stores and even associate them with the holidays like Christmas, Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day and Graduation Day because they have huge advertising budgets that allow them to pump out all kinds of ads and commercials. Their longevity in the marketplace and brand recognition translates in as trustworthy.
Their convenience means they are accessible and we know exactly where to go if we are “on-the-hook” for a last minute gift. When it comes to engagement rings, they carry a variety of lines and designs. Their salespeople have varying degrees of expertise in the industry. Warrantee/guarantee/certification?
Internet Retailers
We all love browsing and shopping on sites like Amazon.com and Ebay. They are the prominent internet retailers. Armchair shopping is the easiest way to research and shop for to-you-door delivery. And yes, these huge internet retailers offer a variety of engagement rings at discounted prices. Some are offered by the directly by Amazon or Ebay, other products on these sites are from independent sellers who use these sites as their online store.
The capability of ordering from Amazon with next day or Amazon Prime two-day free delivery is very attractive. Especially if you really know what you are buying, are sure of her style, her size and especially if you are in a time crunch. Again, you choose— you buy. No customization, no assistance available.
In addition, there are internet retailers who specialize in jewelry, such as Blue Nile and James Allen. The fact that they specialize is a big plus, if you are wanting to purchase a diamond engagement ring this way. What may be difficult in any online ring purchase is how well the picture represents the actual ring you receive.
Warrantee/guarantee/certification?
Big City Jewelry
Big city jewelry marketplaces like Manhattan’s Diamond District, Philadelphia’s Jeweler’s Row and other similar places in Chicago or Los Angeles are most attractive to people who travel from the suburbs to browse many stores in one location. If you are looking for options and choices, you will find thousands from hundreds of retail and wholesale merchants, and among them expert craftsman.
Here, the options, vendors and choices are literally mind boggling even for experts. When it comes to diamond buying and engagement ring shopping it’s good to have some diamond buying knowledge to be able to determine what is a good deal and who is a reputable vendor in order to make the best purchase.
Luxury Retailers
Luxury retail jewelers such as Tiffany & Company and David Yurman have retail locations. You may even see them in some high-end malls, but they differ from the chain store jewelry retailers in that their beginning price points are higher. And, these luxury brands have their own highly-recognized, unique branded jewelry pieces and collections, such as Tiffany’s signature Heart necklace and David Yurman’s Cable collection. These retailers are well known and respected in the industry.
If you choose a luxury retailer for your engagement ring purchase, you may have to pay more. However, if you are looking for a recognized designer’s name to add to the cache’ of the ring, you can also expect expert, high-quality service.
Pawn Shops
You might not think of a pawn shop as a resource for engagement rings, but they often have a large selection. They are “pre-owned” rings. The rings will likely be a “bargain” at a much lower cost. The caution here is making sure the value is there for the cost.
If going this route, it would be wise to be educated about diamonds. It might be somewhat different than purchasing a pre-owned ring in a jewelry store, because a pawn shop does not specialize in jewelry. They sell many types of items as well, so you will have little reliable help in knowing what you are pruchasing.
In a pawn shop, as with any time you buy a used item, you will want to make sure you receive the proper documentation for the ring. A legitimate purchase of diamond at a pawn should could be a great lower-cost opportunity, and might even be the place to find an antique or vintage piece, if that’s her style.
Buying Abroad or on Vacation
It has become more popular for people to buy diamond jewelry such as an engagement ring abroad, often while traveling or vacationing. The mindset is buying as close to the original source can save money. Perhaps. Many places abroad charge little to no taxes on luxury items. However, the exchange rate on the piece alone may make you rethink your decision and purchase locally instead.
Also, it’s always good to know what you are buying. Doing so while vacationing, can create a problem in giving up precious relaxation time to find vendors and sort out the options. That’s a job in itself.
However, it makes the purchase more special and adds a story and perhaps a special memory to the purchase. For those who love it, that kind of purchase offers her endless bragging-rights for years to come, about the origin of her unique ring.
Local Independent Jewelers
Independent jewelers differ from all others. They are personally connected to their local areas and they base their businesses on developing relationships with the community and their customers. They build their businesses on customer loyalty and referrals. To develop these relationships, they will do everything they can to offer personalized service and a consistent standard of quality others cannot.
They are knowledgeable and ready to share that knowledge with you, so you can make the right selections for you.
They specialize in personal attention, getting to know you, your budget and your preferences. They want you to come back time and time again, so it begins with one-on-one attention. Often you can talk directly with the owner, who is invested in your satisfaction.
Unlike large or chain retailers, and independent jeweler makes his or her own buying decisions to control the quality of their pieces. Selections are handpicked and inspected before they make it to their showcases.
When it comes to unique rings or custom designs they excel in consultations that go beyond the “look” of the ring. However, they can also offer you “big box” store variety and the luxury brands as well.
If you believe in the value of relationships, quality, service and supporting local businesses, you will find buying from an independent jeweler is a great choice.
CHAPTER 3: RING DESIGN
Ring Mounting
The mounting portion of the ring, also referred to as the setting, is the precious metal that holds the center stone in place. The mounting also includes any secondary stones in the ring. There are many types of mounting designs which most often determines the style of the ring.
Often, the mounting is chosen independently of the center stone. Much like if you purchase a work of art like a painting, you selected a frame that will complement the painting.
There are many different design styles for engagement rings. The most common ones are listed below.
Classic Engagement Ring – This is the “Little Black Dress” of engagement rings. A classic engagement ring will always be in style. It can coordinate nicely with most any style of wedding band. This traditional, timeless ring will delight her, and stand the test of time for years to come. It’s a ring that she will love now, and it will hold its value.
Three Stone Engagement Ring – This is a somewhat less traditional ring. Its attraction is that the three stones, usually diamonds, symbolize the past, present and future of your relationship. She will be overcome with emotion from the sentiment this choice of ring conveys.
Vintage Engagement Ring – The term “vintage” describes a ring style that is designed to look like an antique ring, or one from a previous era. Vintage rings often have more intricate designs with a romantic quality. If this is her style, she will delight in the unique character of the vintage style.
Modern Engagement Ring – A Modern engagement ring features more of a contemporary look. The setting is designed to showcase the center stone, which becomes the focus of the ring. It has been the most popular style in the past 20 years, which is why it’s called “modern.”
Halo Engagement Ring – A Halo engagement ring uses smaller diamonds or gemstones in a halo affect around the more prominent center stone. This a popular style, because it is designed in such a way that makes the center stone appear larger than it actually is. The sparkle and illusion created with the smaller stones gives a lot of sparkle to the ring. Some might refer to this ring as the “biggest bang for your buck”
There are many mountings in a variety of styles from which to choose. This is why it is important to know a person’s style and lifestyle before you start shopping for a ring.
Elements used in Mountings
Mountings are made from precious metals including varieties of gold, platinum and palladium. Luxury jewelry is made from these precious metals and mixtures of metals known as alloys. The metals used for rings have to be malleable enough to be manipulated into jewelry, yet durable enough to withstand the test of time.
Metals
Platinum – Platinum is a naturally white metal that is significantly more pure and more rare than gold. It is denser than gold, and is also hypo-allergenic. Platinum is usually alloyed (combined with other metals) to give it the strength and malleability it needs.
A platinum mounting generally costs more than a gold mounting. Despite being stronger and more durable than gold, platinum is softer, so it may bend or scratch easier. Scratches can be easily polished out and the metal can be bent back into form.
Gold – The purity of gold is measured in karats. Often referred to as, “Yellow Gold,” 24 karat gold is considered to be pure gold. Lesser karat gold is a mixture of gold and other metals. For example 18 karat gold is a mixture of 75 percent pure gold and 25 percent of another metals. 14 karat gold is 58 percent pure gold and the rest other metals. The other metals or alloys used with gold are dependent on the manufacturer and the type of gold. Other colors of gold include white and rose. rose.
White Gold – Is a mixture of pure yellow gold and other metals to make it harder and give it its color. Often yellow gold is electroplated with a platinum family metal called rhodium to give it the pure white appearance.
Rhodium is a precious metal that is rare and expensive. While rhodium is too expensive and too delicate to make jewelry out of, it is perfect for a coating on the jewelry. It also makes an excellent polish and protects the piece from damage. It also can be an almost hypoallergenic coating for those who are allergic to specific types of metal.
White gold looks almost identical to platinum when a ring is brand new or recently polished. Unfortunately, white gold does not wear the same.
Rose Gold – Rose gold comes in colors of pink or rosy tones. The brightness of the pink depends
on the amount of copper used in the alloy. Rose gold gives a distinctly feminine touch, but one must be cautious, as many are allergic to the copper content.
Center / Head Setting Styles
The center stone in the ring is the biggest part of your ring investment. It needs to be well secured or it could detach at any time. The diamond could be easily lost forever.
If the setting uses prongs to secure the stone, there are typically four or six prongs made of metal. If prongs are not used, then a bezel setting may be used. A bezel is grooved metal which surrounds the edge of the stone to hold it in place.
Shank Styles – The shank is the circular part of the ring underneath the head and the center stone. This part of the ring can be plain, twisted, split and set with additional stones.
Side Stones
Will she want a single stone, solitaire, ring that showcases one diamond, or a ring with additional smaller stones to surround the main stone? Smaller side stones can be range in size and are designed to add to the sparkle of the ring.
If the choice is to have side stones, you have many design options such as having one or two stones on each side of the center stone. Others styles incorporate very small diamonds to surround the center diamond like the halo style ring. In this style, the side stones encircle the center diamond, making it appear more prominent and even larger. The amount of side stones you decide to incorporate into your design is completely up to you and your creativity.
Color & Clarity
When selecting side stones, it is important to choose them with the color of the center stone in mind. Side stones should match or coordinate with the color of the main stone. If they do not they will look like mistakes and actually draw attention away from the center stone. It’s okay to get creative with different shades of stone colors, but the goal is to keep everything coordinated. If you choose different color side stones in several grades lower than the main diamond, the side stones will have look as though they have a yellow tint.
Clean, clear flawless stones are always a good choice. If this proves to be too expensive, you can get creative with a mounting or setting that sets the stone so the flaws are concealed.
Selecting Side Stone Certifications
You always have the option to have your side stones certified, but if you trust your jeweler you can avoid the certification fee. You’ll save money, and have the peace of mind knowing that your jeweler is giving you the benefit of his or her experience and assurance.
Brands
You may have seen magazine advertisements, billboards, or on the internet, luxury jewelry brands promoting their jewelry. Men typically remember ones like Rolex or Tissot or TAG Heuer promoting their watches. There are those who advertise luxury diamond jewelry such as Cartier, Tiffany and Harry Winston.
These brand names come with higher than average price tags. It doesn’t mean that other luxury brands are out of reach.
When it comes to engagement rings, designers like Simon G, Ritani and ArtCarved are available at better jewelry stores. They each have their signature styles.
Simon G Engagement Rings are known as being the fairy-tale, whimsical, vintage-inspired diamond rings.
Ritani Engagement Rings are sophisticated, hand-crafted, dazzling diamond settings. Ritani patented their ring settings which feature small diamonds within the prongs of the ring. Something you won’t find elsewhere.
ArtCarved Engagement Rings are flirty and modern but still are retain a traditional and classic feel.
One of our top sellers,
If a designer ring is her style, regardless of the designer you choose, you will be purchasing the highest quality and providing your her with the bragging rights of a brand-name ring.
With the wide array of choices in engagement ring designs, mountings, setting styles, metals, brands and stones, we know your head must be spinning, perhaps a custom ring design might be a good choice.
Designing her engagement ring relieves the stress of searching out the perfect ring for her. Instead of shopping endlessly for laundry-list of her must-haves, a custom designed ring could be the opportunity to create a beautifully unique ring she will cherish. Imagine how thrilled she would be that you took the time and effort to research her preferences and style. What an extra special symbol of your love and commitment to her happiness.
Working with a custom jewelry design professional, will increase your knowledge of fine jewelry, will have the creative freedom, as well as control over the cost.
CHAPTER 4: THE DIAMOND
Diamond Shapes
A diamond is a diamond, right? Wrong. There are many factors to consider when choosing a diamond. The shape of the diamond is important. She likely has a preference and it needs to look good with the ring design you have chosen.
While a round diamond is the most popular, you have many opportunities to get creative with the diamond shape that will be the star of the ring. There is the enticing princess cut diamond, or the exquisite marquise shaped diamond. Then there is the trendy pear shaped diamond. Know all the shapes before you choose, and you will be sure to pick the right one for her.
Think of diamond shapes like car models; there may be the Audi brand, but there are different model types. It’s the same thing with diamonds! Here are the most popular “model types” of diamonds for your engagement ring:
Round Shaped Diamond
The most beloved and well-known diamond shape is the round diamond. Originating back to the 17th century, the round diamond shape is timeless, versatile and classic. Round diamonds look impeccable as apart of solitaire ring, solitaire pendant, or solitaire earrings. Round brilliant diamond rings make up the majority of the market, thereby selling more than double all the other ring shapes combined!
A round diamond as your center stone will also give you the freedom to get creative with the diamond band. Adding in a twisted diamond band would not only add to the uniqueness of the ring, but wouldn’t take away from the feature of the ring; the alluring round diamond.
For any bachelor searching for the perfect diamond, you can’t go wrong with this shape or cut.
Expert Advice: or Pro Tip?
Princess Cut Diamond
A Princess cut diamond, also known as a square diamond, was created in 1979 and delivers a sophisticated, modern vibe with a regal appeal. The stunning shape creates the illusion of a brighter, bigger diamond. This diamond is perfect in a solitaire ring, or any ring for that matter, and offers the elegance that your “princess” deserves. A Princess cut diamond can be a perfect square, or even a bit rectangular.
Expert Advice: or Pro Tip?
Cushion Cut Diamond
The Cushion cut style has been around since the 1900s. This polished style works perfectly in modern and classic settings, or with a halo setting or side stones. Cushion cut diamonds also maintain their natural color better than any other diamond, which means you add different colors of stones into the ring.
Expert Advice:Or Pro Tip>
Marquis Cut Diamond
The unique, radiating cut of a Marquis diamond is sure to make heads turn. The Marquis shape was created in 1745 when King Louis XV tasked his diamond officer to create a diamond that mirrored his mistress’ mouth. The football-shaped design is now amongst the more exclusive and bold choices. If you want the ring you choose to stand out and steal the show, this is the diamond to select.
Expert Advice:Or Pro Tip>
Radiant Cut Diamond
The Radiant cut diamond (definitely appears radiant) is amongst some of the newest diamond cuts, as it was created in 1977. The Radiant cut is vibrant, modern and the best-of-all-worlds as it is a combination of round, emerald and princess cut diamonds. This diamond cut pairs well with accent diamonds and has the opportunity to be designed in more of a square shape, or a rectangular shape. If you are finding yourself stuck between the different cuts, the radiant cut will give you everything you are looking for.
Emerald Cut Diamond
The Emerald cut diamond is known for being the OG- diamond with its origins tracing back to the 1500s. This diamond cut is versatile, and works well almost any band. It shines as a center stone, but can also be used as side stones to compliment another center stone style. This graceful and trendy design can be captivating and simple on its own, or dressed up for her preference.
Asscher Cut Diamond
Asscher cut diamonds are referred to as the “hall of mirrors” cut, which showcases its octagon shape, brilliance and uniqueness. A different approach to the emerald cut, but with the same feel, the Asscher cut was created in 1902, and has more weight than that of the other diamonds. This is the perfect cut to showcase both the diamonds individuality and hers.
Measurements and Carats
There might be some confusion between a diamond’s width and height measurement, and its carat weight. Actually, the measurement of the ring is the most important to the visual appeal of the ring— more than its carat weight, because it determines how much of the diamond you will see on her finger.
For example, let’s say an average male weighs 200 pounds. Even though we know he is 200 pounds, his mass alone doesn’t tell me much else about him. Is he 7 foot or 4 foot? Is he stocky or slender? The measurement of the diamond refers to the actual length, width and height of the diamond, while the diamond carat focuses on only the weight of the diamond.
Pro Tip: when selecting a diamond, focus more on measurements than on the carat weight. The measurement of the diamond is what you are going to see more of, and the surface area of the diamond is what she is going to truly enjoy.
A larger carat weight diamond does not necessarily mean it is a bigger diamond. It means the diamond weighs more, but it says nothing about its size. However, keep in mind that as the carat of the diamond increases, so does the price; so know what will satisfy your partner and your budget when you make your choice.
Pro Tip 2: Buy shy – the general expression of carats is by quarters. If you buy a 1.20 carat versus a 1.25 carat, you will save more money than the few points short. 1.20 and 1.25 can measure the same diameter, but you can save money because it doesn’t achieve that quarter benchmarks.
https://4cs.gia.edu/en-us/diamond-carat-weight/
Color
After you have selected your diamond cut, your next step is to select your diamond color.
The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) grades the colors of diamonds on standardized scale. The scale ranges from colorless, Grade D, to light yellow/brown color Grade Z. In looking at the range from D-Z, as the diamond color changes, the pricing changes as well, with colorless diamonds being the most rare…meaning they are also the most expensive!
D color diamonds are the highest grade diamond, but as you trail down the scale, you are still able to find diamonds that appear colorless to the naked eye, and are only noticeable when held in contrast to an actual colorless diamond.
With D being absolutely colorless, you can find a grade level that suits the appearance of the ring and suits your wallet. Shop between grades E-K diamond colors for best value for your budget. From color grades L through-Z, you will be able to detect a warm tint to the diamond, with an L being half the price of a D.
Pro Tip: It’s easiest to grade loose diamonds for color. Diamonds are usually graded for color face down.
https://beyond4cs.com/color/choosing-a-diamond-color/
https://www.bluenile.com/education/diamonds/color
Clarity
When a diamond is created underground and undergoes heat and pressure, it’s bound to be born with some small impurities called inclusions. A diamond’s clarity is related to the size of these inclusions and imperfections. Diamonds that have no inclusions are very rare…and thereby more expensive.
Most inclusions are not visible to the naked eye, but just like the diamond color, there is a grading scale for diamond clarity. Read More article for Diamond Designs in Orange.
