Shopping for Matching Bridal Sets? Learn the Four C’s of Diamond Buying

If you’re in the process of shopping for matching bridal sets, wedding ring sets or any type of wedding or engagement ring, congratulations! You’re in the process of completing one of the most memorable experiences of your life. To make sure you get the most out of your shopping, it’s important to learn the basics of diamond buying.

If you only educate yourself on one thing when it comes to wedding ring shopping, make sure it’s the art of diamond buying. By learning the four C’s of diamond buying, you’ll ensure that you get the best value for your budget.

The Four C’s of Diamond Buying:

Color: Some diamonds are considered “fancy colored” and these do not fall into a category of a specific color of a diamond. Diamond colors range from D (colorless) to Z (light yellow). The price of a diamond is based partially on the color. The less color that a diamond has, the more valuable it is.

Cut: Make no mistake; this is not the same as shape. Often times, shoppers confuse the two and find themselves a bit lost when it’s time to start shopping. Cut refers to the way the diamond was faceted to allow light reflections. In a diamond that is cut well, light will enter the diamond and then reflect straight back out. Sometimes, cut is sacrificed to accommodate size; this causes light to leak out of the sides and bottom of the diamond. Cut is graded as ideal, premium, very good, fair and poor.

Clarity: While all diamonds are beautiful, there is a standard for determining its flaws and other imperfections. Diamonds almost always have inclusions, slight flaws, air bubbles, scratches and mineral intrusions. The scale for grading a diamond ranges is as follows:

· F (Flawless)

· IF (Internally Flawless)

· VVS1 – VVS2 (Very, Very Slightly Included)

· VS1 – VS2 (Very Slightly Included)

· SI1 – SI2 (Slightly Included)

· I1 – I3 (Included)

Carat: The carat weight is the approximate weight of the diamond. When it comes to carats, the larger the weight the more valuable the diamond. It’s important to understand the different carat weights and which weight is appropriate for the overall look of the ring.

With this knowledge, you’ll be able to purchase a diamond that is the most valuable for your budget. Remember, shopping for wedding rings is the experience of a lifetime. Have fun with it!