Buying a diamond is a costly investment and careful consideration is needed when making such a purchase.
Buying a diamond is a costly investment and careful consideration is needed when making such a purchase.
In a video created by news and entertainment site Business Insider, Brian Driscoll explains the tips and ways to pick the right diamond. Driscoll is an instructor at the Gemological Institute of America.
When people pick a diamond, they usually follow the 4 Cs - cut, clarity, colour and carat weigh. However, there are other factors to consider before one makes their purchase.
Firstly, one should decide and set a budget before stepping into a jeweller. Diamonds may be tiny but they can cost hundreds and even thousands.
Secondly, the shopper should also shortlist the boutiques that they wish to visit. According to Driscoll, he prefers to choose a boutique which has a good reputation so that they will stand by their products. He also asks his friends and people he knows on which shops he should go.
Thirdly, after entering the jeweller, Driscoll said one should ask if the diamond comes with a lab report so that the jewel has certification and is authentic.
After these considerations are settled, Driscoll will then decide on the diamond with the 4 rules of choosing the diamond. The rules determine the value of the diamond.
Clarity refers to the amount of transparency in the product, said Driscoll. A highly-priced diamond should be clear and not have any blemishes on the surface when looked through the light or microscope. The diamond should not have any 'things' inside. These 'things' called inclusions, explained Driscoll, affect the transparency.
Cut refers to the shape or style of the diamond. According to reports online, round brilliant and princess are the two most popular cuts chosen for engagement rings. These two cuts are known as 'modern cuts', and according to Driscoll, there are 'infinite' number of cuts that one can choose from.
Coloured diamonds are 'very rare', said Driscoll, but it is possible to see hints of colour like yellow or brown inside the precious stone. Diamonds are colour-graded starting with D, which is colourless, to Z which is light colour. The colour of the diamond is decided by comparing it with diamond masterstones in the laboratories, said Driscoll.
Lastly, the size of the diamond is determined by its carat weight. The precious jewel starts off as an un-cut stone, then it is given to the cutter who will make it even more beautiful 'ten-fold', said Driscoll. The weight of the diamond is affected by its shape. As such, these 4 rules are inter-related.
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