Buying loose diamonds gives you the leverage to have your item of choice custom made. It also allows you to determine the quality of the stone better because mounted diamond can conceal defects that may not be visible from outside. Whatever your reason for buying loose diamonds is, you need to make the most out of your purchase.
Follow these guidelines before making your purchase, to get the most out of it.
Ask for certification
The first thing you should understand before purchasing loose diamonds is the certification. A certified diamond is one that has been evaluated by a third party gemological laboratory. The scientific assessment gives information about the characteristics and quality of that particular diamond and proof that the diamond is as the seller claims. These certifications help loose diamonds keep their value longer than other stones that are sold in the absence of certification. Without this certificate, you cannot verify the carat, clarity, color, and cut of the diamond that you are buying. Always buy diamonds that have been certified by trusted laboratories.
Decide on quality and size
When purchasing loose diamonds, it is paramount that you consider the quality and size that you want. Many people have the perception that the bigger the diamond, the better it is. However, this is not always the case. The truth is, the larger the diamond, the rarer it is to get a top quality one. In order not to exceed your budget, you have to choose between a high quality smaller diamond and a lower quality bigger diamond.
The 4 C’s
Research on the 4 C’s before making any purchase to have a better understanding of how diamonds are valued. It will put you in a better position to decide which of the C’s is most important to you before you buy loose diamonds. The 4 C’s include clarity, color, carat, and cut. Clarity refers to the tiny imperfections that every diamond has. These natural imperfections are known as inclusions, and the fewer inclusions a diamond has, the higher the quality. However, zero imperfections could mean the diamond is a counterfeit or an alternative. Color refers to how a diamond looks and ranges from D (colorless) to Z (light yellow). More color can hinder the stone’s ‘fire” or the prismatic effect of colors seen when natural light passes through the diamond. Carat depicts the weight of the diamond. One carat equals an average of 0.20 grams. Finally, the cut of the stone determines its symmetry, shape, and light reflection properties.
Time management
Do you intend to use the diamond you are buying soon or at a later date? When making your purchase, you have to factor in the not only the time you will need to find and buy it but also the amount of time that will be required to set it. To save on time, you can buy the diamond and pick a setting at the same place. This way, you will benefit from purchasing a diamond and getting the quickest possible delivery option.
Purchasing loose diamonds can be a huge decision and a significant investment. It can also be very memorable and rewarding. All you need to do is follow the guiding rules discussed above, and you will be on the right track to purchasing a beautiful loose diamond.
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