The value of a diamond is determined by its quality and individual characteristics.

Naturally you will want the best quality diamond you can afford.

Before you buy a diamond it is best to have an understanding of what you are buying, so that you are able to make an informed decision.

Learn about cut , clarity , colour  and carat  weight.

These qualities are what defines a diamond and are known as the 4C's.

Obtaining knowledge and an understanding about the 4C's is an important first step towards buying the right diamond.

Buying Diamonds

  When you start to think about buying a loose diamond , you naturally will want the best diamond that you can afford.Diamonds can be found in a range of shapes, sizes, qualities and prices. The value of a diamond is determined by its exact quality as defined by the 4C's; Cut, Colour, Clarity and Carat-Weight. Before you start diamond shopping, it is best to have an understanding of what you are buying. Getting knowledge and  learning about diamonds is the first step towards buying the right diamond.

  Diamond Colour

Diamonds are found in a variety of colours. The rarest diamonds are ones that have a colourless grading or diamonds with fancy colours such as greens, blues, reds and pinks. The colour of a diamond has a significant impact on its value. The diamond colour scale ranges from D to Z colour, D being colourless down to zed colour which is light yellow. Even though the most valuable diamond is D colour, a diamond which grades G colour through to J colour will appear nearly colourless.

  Diamond Clarity

Diamond clarity refers to the presence of identifying characteristics on and within the diamond . Most diamonds contain what are called inclusions, these have been caused by the constantly changing conditions during the different phases of the diamond's creation. Diamonds are graded for clarity under 10 power loupe magnification. Clarity grades range from Internally Flawless to  Pique 3 or P3 / I3. While Flawless diamonds are the rarest. A diamond does not have to be flawless to be beautiful.

  Diamond Carat

The weight of a diamond is expressed in carats, this is the weight of measure that the jewellery industry uses to weigh diamonds.  One carat is divided into 100 points. A diamond weighing one quarter of a carat can also be described as weighing 25 points or 0.25 carats. Carat is often confused with the size of a diamond, even though it is actually a measure of weight or a diamond's mass. The size of a diamond is measured in millimetres. Larger diamonds are found in nature with much less frequency which makes them more valuable.

  Diamond Certificates

A diamond certificate is a blueprint of a loose diamond. A diamond certificate can also be called a diamond grading report or diamond dossier . The diamond certificate documents the diamond's exact measurements and weight, as well as the details of its cut and clarity. It precisely points out all the individual haracteristics of the stone, inclusions and any flaws. A diamond which is certified provides consumers with confidence, security and increases comfort levels while making a decision on which diamond to purchase.

  Diamond Shapes

Diamonds are cut in many different and exciting shapes . The shape of a diamond is often confused with its cut. Shape refers to the basic form of the diamond. The most common Diamond shapes are, round, princess, emerald, ascher, cushion, oval, heart, radiant, baguette, trilliant, marquise and pear shape. When it comes to the shape of a diamond, it is simply a matter of personal taste. The right diamond shape for you is really the shape that you like the appearance of, or have a preference to wards.

   Diamond Settings

Diamond Rings come in a variety of designs these days. There are several designs to choose from when it is time to purchase your diamond ring. The most popular styles are; Solitaire setting, Solitaire cathedral setting, Setting with baguette diamonds, Diamond 3 stone setting, and diamond Channel set ring. Apart from the ring design there is also the setting style of the actual diamonds to consider. The setting for your loose diamond is like a picture frame, it holds and protects the diamond, and enhances its beauty.