
What You Need to Know Before You Buy A Diamond Ring
Do you know about a diamond certificate/grading report?
A diamond certificate (also called a grading report) is a certificate that is created by a gemologist. This certificate includes the dimensions, clarity, color, and carat. The gemologist use their training and a jeweler’s loupe to determine the above traits and make record of the estimated value of the stone. The most reputable companies who grade diamonds are the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), AGS Laboratories, and European Gemological Laboratories (EGA).
Most diamond purchasers accomplish most of their diamond research online, and are increasingly buying their diamonds online as well.
Ask for the diamond's certificate. If you know what you want, the certificate will tell you if a particular diamond matches your criteria. Unless you are a trained gemologist, you are not likely to appraise the diamonds as well as the certificate can. So, start by comparing certificates with the diamonds’ prices, and when you find a diamond you like, then ask to see the actual diamond.
Key Elements of a Diamond Certification Report
Shape and Cutting Style
Measurements
Weight
Proporti
Table
Girdle
Cutlet
Finish
Polish
Symmetry
Clarity
Color
Fluorescence
Diagram
Comments (optional)
Laser Inscription Registry (optional)
The quality of a diamond-- and ultimately the price you pay for it-- will depend upon its quality "grade". Diamond grading evaluates the gem's carat weight, color, clarity, and cut.

The Cut of a Diamond Determines its Brilliance
Cut – This is the angles and proportions of the diamond shape. Cut is also called “make,” the better the cut the more attractive the diamond. Valuing the diamond based on cut can be very subjective.
- Too Shallow: Light is lost out the bottom causing the diamond to lose brilliance.
- Too Deep: Light escapes out the sides causing the diamond to appear dark and dull.

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