This Is Your Moment
The instant two people decide to marry is one of the most intimate moments of their lives. It marks the moment two people become one forever. A diamond is the perfect symbol of that eternal bond. As a representation of everlasting love, diamonds evoke the romance and magic of traditions that have spanned centuries.

The First Diamond


The Brilliance of a Diamond


The Mysterious Power of a Diamond



The 4Cs are used throughout the world to classify the rarity of diamonds. Diamonds with the combination of the highest 4C ratings are more rare and, consequently, more expensive. No one C is more important than another in terms of beauty and it is important to note that each of the 4Cs will not diminish in value over time.

Once you have established those 4C characteristics that are most important to you, a jeweler can then begin to show you various options with quoted prices.

THE DIAMOND QUALITY PYRAMID




Diamond Quality Pyramid

CARAT
Refers to the weight of a diamond.



A 1-carat diamond costs exactly twice the price of a half-carat diamond, right? Wrong. Since larger diamonds are found less frequently in nature, which places them at the rarest level of the Diamond Quality Pyramid, a 1-carat diamond will cost more than twice a 1/2-carat diamond (assuming color, clarity and cut remain constant).

Cut and mounting can make a diamond appear larger (or smaller) than its actual weight. So shop around and talk to your jeweler to find the right diamond and setting to optimize the beauty of your stone.

CLARITY
Refers to the presence of inclusions in a diamond.



To view inclusions, jewelers use a magnifying loupe. This tool allows jewelers to see a diamond at 10x its actual size so that inclusions are easier to see. The position of inclusions can affect the value of a diamond. There are very few flawless diamonds found in nature, thus these diamonds are much more valuable.

Inclusions are ranked on a scale of perfection, known as clarity, which was established by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA). The clarity scale, ranging from F (Flawless) to Included (I), is based on the visibility of inclusions at a magnification of 10x.

Some inclusions can be hidden by a mounting, thus having little effect on the beauty of a diamond. An inclusion in the middle or top of a diamond could impact the dispersion of light, sometimes making the diamond less brilliant.



COLOR
Refers to the degree to which a diamond is colorless.

Diamonds are found in almost every color of the rainbow, but white-colored diamonds remain most popular.



Color differences are very subtle and it is very difficult to see the difference between, say, an E and an F. Therefore, colors are graded under controlled lighting conditions and are compared to a master set for accuracy.

Truly colorless stones, graded D, treasured for their rarity, are highest on the Diamond Quality Pyramid. Color, however, ultimately comes down to personal taste. Ask a jeweler to show you a variety of color grades next to one another to help you determine your color preference.



CUT
Refers to the angles and proportions of a diamond.



Based on scientific formulas, a well-cut diamond will internally reflect light from one mirror-like facet to another and disperse and reflect it through the top of the stone. This results in a display of brilliance and fire, thereby placing well-cut diamonds higher on the Diamond Quality Pyramid than deep or shallow-cut diamonds. Diamonds that are cut too deep or too shallow lose or leak light through the side or bottom, resulting in less brilliance and ultimately, value.






What to Spend
Diamond Buyer's Guide

Buying a diamond means investing in a piece of forever. A true miracle of nature dating from the beginning of time, each diamond purchase is special.



You can rest assured that the diamond you buy will be a sound financial investment. Their rare qualities have been sought after for thousands of years. Their desirability and value remain undiminished today and will continue through the years to come.



Finding a Quality Jeweler
The 5th C: Confidence

A good jeweler is the first step to a smart diamond purchase. To find a jeweler you can trust, ask your family and friends for recommendations. Your jeweler should be knowledgeable about diamonds and help you feel comfortable making this important purchase.

If you are unaware of a jeweler in your area, it may be helpful to contact the Jewelers of America (800-223-0673) or the American Gem Society (800-341-6214) for a recommendation.