It is an exciting and nerve-wracking experience at the same time. This is especially true, if it is your first time. Of course your biggest worry is the size, and if it will be big enough? Now while you could be thinking about one thing, what is being referred to here is however, diamonds. You are looking to purchase a diamond and you aren’t entirely sure exactly what you should be looking for or even where you should be looking! Fear not, the following will offer you a wide variety of aspects to analyze when it comes to a potential diamond purchase you are interested in making. If there is one lesson that can’t be stressed enough to first time diamond buyers is that, you must shop around and compare diamonds you are considering. This will not only allow you to make sure you are getting a great deal, but it will also deter you from impulse buying a diamond and not getting your money’s worth. For the first time buyer, it is vital that you understand the “four C’s” of diamonds. Before you head out to go shopping, you need to understand the four C’s, which are; Cut, Clarity, Color and Carat Weight. Ultimately it will depend on what your personal preferences are as some people would rather forego quality for size, while other place a larger emphasis on clarity and/or color regardless of the cost. Choosing the diamond which most perfectly fits your specific situation and one that is going to make you happy is ultimately what it comes down to. The simple fact is, you can ask ten different people their opinion on what the most important characteristic of a diamond is, and you could quite literally get ten completely different answers. Some experts swear by the importance of cut over all other characteristics, while other experts stress the importance of the diamond passing the “eyeball test”, meaning it is beautiful when looking at it with the naked eye, regardless of its’ potential flaws or inclusions. While still some other experts care most about the brilliance and fire a diamond espouses no matter what the size or carat weight the diamond may possess. Choose the diamond that most “fits” who you are. Essentially, the truly ideal diamond would fit well within your budget, and contain all of the four C’s defining characteristics. Here are a few more tips and facts to keep in mind when looking to purchase a diamond: • Certified diamonds are always recommended when possible, as a diamond which has been certified by the GIA (Gemological Institute of America) or the AGS (American Gem Society) offers you “proof” that the diamond you are purchasing does in fact contain the characteristics (cut, clarity, color, carat weight, etc.) the dealer says it does. Ensuring that you are getting your money’s worth and that has been verified by a sanctioned, independent diamond certifier. • Most experts agree that the cut of a diamond can cause the value of said diamond to skyrocket by some estimates, as high as 50%. The number one defining characteristic of a diamond that has been masterfully cut, is the ability of said diamond to offer a brilliant shine and “fire”. Like everything else diamond related, you will need to weigh the importance of the cut, and the resulting brilliance against the rest of your preferences for the diamond you are purchasing. • Do your due-diligence! Meaning, don’t rush into anything! Be sure that you take the time to do your homework and research the diamonds available to you. Not only in the local jewelry store and diamond wholesaler, but online diamond sales have skyrocketed and are considered completely safe and a legitimate way to purchase a beautiful new diamond. The more information you have, the better prepared you will be, and ultimately the more informed purchase you will make, ensuring your money goes further than you ever could have imagined. Learn the meaning of an inclusion, learn the importance of understanding the characteristics of a high-quality diamond, and study the four C’s! You will be glad you did when you see how much leverage you have when you do eventually decide to venture out and officially start looking for a diamond to buy

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