Purchasing a diamond engagement ringis a emotional turning point for many engaged couples
. Few engaged couples have any experience buying loose diamonds or fine jewelry and are learning as they shop. While the idea of loose diamond grading is simple, it takes training to know the true value.
Most retail jewelry stores have to keep a close eye on profit margins. They must cover operating cost and make a profit. This means the retail price of a diamond can vary everywhere you shop even if they were identical diamonds. Unlike most products that can be compared by brands and model numbers each and every diamond is unique. Add to this the vast number of variations in value due to weight and the process becomes very confusing.
A diamonds value can be broken down to the weight, color, clarity and quality of the cut. Large diamonds, cost more money as do higher carity and better cut. Next you have the most wanted sizes, which also add to the price. For example a three quarter diamond is more prestigious than a .69ct so it can be sold for a much higher price even though the two may appear to be thesame diameter. Same with the .94ct and 1.00ct stones. If you want to say you purchased a 1.00ct you will pay for the privilege.
Since retailers know the public wants that 1.00ct weight many diamonds are cut for weight and not quality. This is why some 1.00ct diamonds measure 6.00mm and look like a 3/4ct but are deep and heavy. If you buy a 1.00ct, 2.00ct or even a 3.00ct them at least get one that looks the correct size to the eye.
If buying a round diamond make sure the diameter is correct. A 3/4cy should be around 5.9mm and a 1.00ct close to 6.4mm. A 6.00mm that weighs 1.00ct is never a good stone. Also check the depth found on a GIA grading report. It should be around 61-62% for a well cut stone. The gurdle and vary but look for a thin to medium thickness.