Diamond professionals use these four factors to describe and classify diamonds; Color, Cut, Clarity and Carat Weight, “The Four C’s”. Together they help in evaluating the finished diamond you buy.

Step One: Decide how much you can spend. If you are buying an engagement ring, the general rule is two months' salary. 2

Step Two: Choose the shape of diamond you prefer. Diamonds come in many cuts. The shape you choose does not affect the quality of the stone. If the stone is cut well, its brilliance and value endure no matter which shape you choose. All are cut for maximum fire and brilliance, but the shapes of the facets vary with the cut.

Because a round diamond is symmetrical, it reflects nearly all light that enters it, making it the most brilliant of all diamond shapes. Fancy shapes are cut to different proportions, so they filter light differently. Here are some considerations when choosing a diamond shape:  

Step Three: Inspect the diamond's clarity (the degree of transparency). The higher the diamond's rating on this scale, the greater its value. Diamonds are rated on a clarity scale that grades diamonds from "flawless" to "obvious inclusions." A "flawless" diamond, free from all inclusions or blemishes, is very rare. 

Step Four: Examine the diamond's color. Although you may not generally think of diamonds as having color, some have a yellow, gray or brown cast. Pure, colorless diamonds are at the top of the color scale. Diamonds are also available in "fancy" colors such as red, blue or purple.5

Step Five: Examine the diamond's cut, which is crucial to the brilliance of the stone and a major factor in its value. A well-cut diamond reflects and disperses light in beautiful ways; thanks to qualities such as symmetry and depth (the bottom of the diamond shouldn't be too shallow or too deep). Diamonds are graded according to the cut quality, and this grade should carry a great deal of weight in your decision. 6

Step Six: Determine the weight, which is measured in carats. The greater the carat weight, the more valuable the diamond. Large stones are rare. Therefore, two 1/2-carat diamonds are less expensive than a single 1-carat diamond.

Step Seven: Compare several diamonds side by side and get a good idea of what you can find in your price range. No two diamonds are alike, so examine all of them carefully for their unique qualities. 8

Step Eight: Make your final decision based on which diamond offers the best combination of the four C's: clarity, color, cut and carat. Ignore any of these attributes, and you jeopardize your chances of getting the best diamond for your money.  

Helpful Tips:

·         Inquire about a certificate from the Gemological Institute of America (GIA). The GIA, the largest impartial diamond-grading authority in the world, issues a grading report and details the diamond's specifications after examining it. John is a GIA Certified Gemologist.

·         Have a questionable stone professionally appraised.

·         Buy from a jeweler who will guide you through the process. A good jeweler will help you assess how much you can spend, show you a wide selection of diamonds, and explain the four C's. At John Michaels, we will guide you through the process so you can make an informed decision when purchasing a diamond -- as well as any piece of fine jewelry!

·         Buying a loose diamond gives you the option of designing a setting around the stone. John Michaels Fine Jewelry offers loose and set stones. Choose the perfect setting for your diamond.