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Popping the question is an exciting but also often nerve-racking experience. You want the big moment to be perfect. The last thing you want to worry about is whether you selected the right diamond at the jewelry store. Before you purchase an engagement ring, learn how jewelers grade diamonds using the “four Cs”: cut, color, clarity, and carat. This information will help you find a diamond that provides the best value for your money.              

Diamond Grading 101

The “four Cs” concept was created by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), a nonprofit organization that developed a standardized method for grading diamonds. When shopping for an engagement ring, beware that large chain jewelry stores often grade a diamond against others in their store rather than on the GIA scale. You can find a better diamond for a lower price at smaller jewelry stores.

1. Cut

The cut of a diamond directly affects how sparkly and shiny it appears when light shines on it. Cut isn’t the shape of the diamond, but more of an indication of how symmetrical and well-polished it is. The GIA scale for rating cut ranges from excellent to poor. Diamond jewelry graded as excellent is the most brilliant and most expensive.

2. Color

Ideally, a diamond should be crystal clear. White, transparent stones are priced much higher than those with noticeable tints of color. The GIA grades diamond color on a scale from D to Z. Diamonds with the least amount of color are graded as a D, while diamonds with visible tints of brown or yellow are graded as or close to a Z.

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3. Clarity

Clarity refers to whether there are any inclusions, or imperfections, in a diamond. The GIA scale for clarity ranges from flawless to I3. When a flaw is not visible to the naked eye, the diamond is referred to as “eye clean.” A diamond with a grade of I3 has obvious flaws that are visible to the naked eye. The fewer imperfections an engagement ring has, the pricier it will be.

4. Carat 

Carat refers to the weight of the diamond. Although diamonds are valued more for their brilliance than weight, the carat weight can be used to differentiate two diamonds of similar cut, clarity, and color. The diamond with the greater carat weight will be more expensive. Keep this in mind when making your jewelry selection.  

 

If you’re ready to pop the question, check out the beautiful selection of diamonds and settings at Smith Jewelry & Coins in St. Charles, MO. Let their knowledgeable staff help you select a stunning engagement ring that works within your budget. They also sell coins, buy gold, and provide jewelry repair services. For more information, visit their website or call (636) 441-6789.

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