| Diamonds are perhaps the most admired and | | | | higher grade than diamonds with visible color. |
| desirable gems. The traditional engagement ring, | | | | Clarity in diamonds refers to the absence of |
| the diamond stud earrings, the diamond pendant | | | | imperfections in the stone. Most diamonds have |
| all evoke the eternal beauty and precious aura of | | | | some tiny imperfections, and those with fewer, |
| diamonds. | | | | with more clarity, receive the highest clarity |
| Buying diamond jewelry can be a new experience | | | | grades. |
| for most people, and can leave you feeling | | | | Carat weight is important, as it measures the |
| intimidated or overwhelmed by the amount of | | | | weight of the diamond. Keep in mind that carat |
| information and advertising out there. | | | | weight alone does not define the quality of a |
| Different characteristics of diamonds will influence | | | | diamond - all of the 5 "C"s must be taken into |
| the appearance and value, and some are more | | | | account to determine quality and value. |
| important than others. Whether the diamond is in | | | | Finally, the diamond should be certified by the GIA. |
| a ring, or a necklace, or a pair of earrings, | | | | The Gemological Institute of America will provide |
| knowing the 5 "C"s, plus the shape of the | | | | an unbiased diamond report based on the first 4 |
| diamond, will help to choose the right stone for | | | | "C"s. Your diamond should have this certification. |
| you or for the one you are going to give the | | | | For more information on the GIA, visit their web |
| diamond jewelry to. | | | | site at |
| The 5 "C"s are Cut, Color, Clarity, Carat weight | | | | The more you know about diamonds, the better |
| and Certification. Let's start with the cut. | | | | prepared you'll be when the big day arrives - will it |
| The cut of a diamond will determine its brilliance. | | | | be a surprise engagement ring for your lady? |
| Whatever the shape of the diamond, whether | | | | Diamonds as that special birthday or holiday gift? |
| round, oval, pear, emerald, marquise or heart, the | | | | A reward for yourself, "just because"? Imagine |
| polished facets of the way the diamond is cut, | | | | the wide eyes of the "sweet sixteen" who |
| and the better the cut, the more brilliance and | | | | receives her first pair of diamond stud earrings! |
| sparkle it will have. | | | | It's important to deal with reputable jewelers, be |
| Next, let's look at color. Color grades of diamonds | | | | sure to get that GIA certification, ask questions, |
| actually refer to the lack of color. White | | | | and you'll be sure to choose just the right |
| diamonds, with little or no color, are considered | | | | diamonds for your taste and budget. |