So you are seeking a diamond? Do you have ZERO idea of what you are looking at with all those terms and numbers?

Whatever the reason you are in the market for a diamond, you need to know the facts to make the right decision. I aim to give you a bit of confidence when you are in the market for diamonds.

The most important things to know about any diamond you are considering are The Four C's. This information will usually be given readily, if not, ask why not.

The four C's enable you to buy diamonds sight unseen, ie over the internet.

These four definite criteria, when applied to any stone, can give you an accurate picture of the gem.

Carat: You will usually find these expressed as things like; 0.02ct or 3.49ct. If there is more than one gemstone the expression will be 4.56ctw (carat weight) If this is for an engagement ring fellas, let me tell you, bigger is better in this case!

Cut: This all about shape. A baguette shape is basically a rectangle with tapered edges. A round brilliant is well, round and brilliant. Trillion shape is triangular and princess is a square cut. Then there are the special, rarer cuts like ascher and hearts and arrows. The hearts and arrows cut is special due to the hearts and arrows that appear when the diamond is viewed from the top (crown)

Colour: Diamonds are found in all colours of the rainbow. Red diamonds are the very rarest of all, with bright pink coming a close second.

Clarity: Expressed as IF (internally flawless) to I3 (included 3) refers to the amount of visible 'bits' ie inclusions there are. Most diamonds will have some inclusion, until you get to about VS1 and up. You can buy diamonds under $100 everyday if you are willing to put up with some darkish patches in them (I1-I2)

Certification: Get a certificate! NOT an appraisal. Big, big difference. The certificate is for insurance purposes, the appraisal is not useful for much at all.

The world's most trusted gem labs are G.I.A. (Gemology Institute of America) and I.G.I. (International Gemological Institute) If the diamond you are seeking is priced at about $6000 or more, it should have a certificate from one of these sources, or another highly regarded international laboratory.



For a much more detailed dive into the world of diamonds including history, mythology, healing properties, The Big Hole in Africa and certification information please visit: http://www.theonestopgemshop.com/buy_page_defdiam_g_oronjo.htm

Hi, I'm Sylvana. I have been involved in the gems trade since about the time I could sit on my Dads' knee and have him tell me all about the pretty gemstones. Each one in its' own special case, handed to me in turn. There I learnt all about colours and different formations rocks make, why some gems display multi colours and what makes each gem special.

Gems are my all consuming passion in this life! So I spend many hours each day, researching and collecting and organising and constantly updating my knowledge.

Any questions, comments or criticisms? Please email me at admin@theonestopgemshop.com

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