Diamond Rings

There are several factors to consider when buying a diamond ring. There are different shapes, sizes, and specifications of diamonds, several metals to choose from and of course the setting. The other obstacle is deciding which style suits the occasion, whether it be a marriage, anniversary, birthday or merely a friendship.

The first point to consider is the preferred metals. The most popular metal is white gold or yellow gold. There is also platinum and silver depending on preference of the buyer. The cost of 14 K gold whether white or yellow is currently around $40.00 per gram, silver is around $0.60 per gram and platinum is around $50.00 per gram.

Diamond vary in size and shape. Diamonds are measured by carat weight. For smaller diamonds, the carat is defined with 100 points. So for instance, if the diamond is 75 points, its actual weight is 3/4 carat or 0.75 carat. After 1 carat, then the carat weight measures 1, 1.25, 1.50, 2.0 etc. 

The clarity of diamonds is another issue that raises or lowers the price of the stone. Clarity is evaluated by the flaws or imperfections within the diamond. Clarity is identified by the following classifications: FL or IF which is the best quality making the diamond rare and very expensive. FL or IF stands for no internal or external flaws, and is considered flawless.

VVS1 and VVS2 marks diamonds with imperfections that cannot be seen by the naked eye, these flaws are even hard to see under a 10X magnification. These diamonds are slightly less expensive then the FL or IF. The VS1 and VS2 grade contains imperfections that cannot be seen by the naked eye. These have very slight imperfections. The SI1 and SI2 grade diamonds have imperfections that are visible under a 10X magnification and may even with the naked eye. The I1, I2, I3 quality diamonds have very visible inclusions which means they are inexpensive diamonds. This type is probably not a good choice for a wedding ring. 

Another aspect of a good quality diamond is the color which is graded from D to Z. The best color for a diamond is graded a D, which is colorless. These diamonds are very hard to find. Grade E and F have very slight traces of color that can only be found by experts. These diamonds are also very rare and expensive. Grade H and G are diamonds that are almost colorless. The color cannot be detected unless its placed next to a diamond of higher grade. Grade J and I have a very slight color, still making it an exceptional diamond, usually ideal for the consumer on a budget. Grade M to Z have color easily seen by the naked eye and are the poorest quality diamonds available. 

Diamonds are also available in certain shapes and cuts such as princess, round, asscher, marquise, oval, heart, radiant, cushion and pear. The cuts emphasize the sparkle and brilliance of the stone. 

When choosing a diamond ring for a special occasion, there are several styles that can be chosen. For instance, a wedding band and engagement ring combination set is practical for a wedding ring. For an anniversary ring, a band with diamonds encased within is customary. For birthdays, friendships and other occasions, a diamond ring is a rather expensive choice but if the monetary means are available then this is an exceptional gift. 

When purchasing a diamond ring, be sure to be armed with knowledge. Jewelers will not be able to sell you a diamond that is worthless with an expensive price tag. Spotting a fake is very important as well. If the diamond contains rainbow colors, then it is likely a fake. The best advice is to buy diamonds from a reputable jeweler. If it seems to good to be true, then it probably is a fake. Don't forget to ask for the diamond certification paperwork from the jeweler.