The 4 Cs of Buying Diamonds
Diamonds are not just pretty gemstones you can wear; they can also be great investments for a rainy day. But you cannot just buy any diamond that comes your way. You need to know how to recognize the differences between a precious gem and a plain piece of rock. So the next time you go shopping for a diamond, here are some tips to help you make the right choice:
Carat
A carat is a diamond’s physical weight. However, you have to remember that how much a diamond weighs is not the most important factor in determining its value. Though a larger diamond may be rarer than a smaller one, if it has not been cut properly, then it could still end up costing less than a perfectly cut stone. So when you are evaluating a diamond, take note of the carat, but do not let it be the deciding vote on whether or not you are going to make the purchase.
Clarity
Clarity is what distinguishes a valuable diamond from a lesser one. The presence of flaws called inclusions can affect this quality and, consequently, decrease a diamond’s price. A standard clarity scale has been in use since the 1950s and reputable sellers like http://diamondqueensland.com.au/ only offer gemstones that have passed rigorous international grading standards. When buying a diamond, be sure to ask about its clarity grade and the certification that proves it so you can be certain of its value.
Colour
Diamonds can come in many colours, with colourless or transparent diamonds being the rarest kind. But this does not mean a coloured diamond is less than valuable. On the contrary, these “fancy” stones are becoming increasingly popular, especially when used in jewellery. For example, more and more couples who choose to have custom engagement rings pick coloured diamonds to make their rings truly unique.
Cut
Finally, a diamond’s cut determines its brilliance and is often the most distinctive quality that sets high-grade gems apart from low-grade ones. A well-cut diamond sparkles with an inner fire that catches the eye immediately. Cuts are graded, too, so ask the jeweller about this detail while you are shopping so you can get the best gemstone for you.
