Diamond engagement ring adverts make it look easy. Two beautiful people walk into the jewelry store, a smiling jeweler waves a hand over a small but comprehensive and varied selection of rings. The couple looks at them for a second, then mutually agree on one, leaving again, smiling happily, the ring firmly (and visibly) on the ring finger of the newly betrothed! In life, it is much trickier. Not only are there so many cuts to consider: round brilliant, princess, emerald, Asscher, cushion, even heart-shaped – but there are factors at play that cannot be seen by the human eye and yet they affect the price of the diamonds tremendously! Here is how you can be sure you are getting the best deal.
Do Your Research
You do not have to study up as those you are taking a degree in gemology, but make sure you know the difference between the various cuts – at least the five most popular, and understand what is meant by the four Cs, and how important each one is when it comes to valuing diamonds. For example, there is no visible difference between an expensive D rated stone and one rated H or I for a markedly lower price – you can make a decent saving and still get yourself a good diamond by compromising on color. If, however, you make silly claims – such as being able to see inclusions in a mounted diamond with your naked eye under a jeweler’s subdued lighting, you are almost inviting them to take advantage of you! Even highly trained gemologists cannot tell the difference between an Fl/IF stone and one that is very slightly included (VS1) unless the diamond is loose and under laboratory conditions, namely a bright light, 10x magnification and a clean white backing against which the stone can be examined. Showing a proper respect for the industry might encourage the jeweler to look at you with a more benign air, and this might score you a better price. Even if it does not, you should know enough to tell when you are being sold a pup – such as a large imperfect stone for a higher price than a small but perfect one.
Location, Location, Location
Where you buy your diamonds from is important too, and will have a large effect on the price. High street jewelers tend to be the most expensive, while wholesale dealers who sell to the public will be cheaper. If you have a contact in the trade, they might be able to get you a special deal – but this might constrain you to accept the cut that is being offered – perhaps an unfashionable cut or color. Best of all when it comes to having a good choice of stone and still scoring a good price is buying online. In general, online diamond sellers are able to save money by avoiding the high overheads of physical premises: secure vault, sturdy but beautiful display cases, building rental, salaries for staff, all the attendant utilities. This means that their diamonds are subject to a much lower margin than high street stores, making them the perfect place for you to shop and gain a great diamond deal.
