The diamond engagement ring is a symbol of love and commitment. It signifies that you will always be there for your partner, no matter what life throws at you. But not all diamonds are created equal, so it’s important to know the facts before investing in this precious piece of jewelry. This article will give an in-depth look at choosing the right diamond engagement ring for your special someone.
When you think about buying an engagement ring, one of the first questions that pops into your mind is what type of diamond should I get? Several options are available for diamonds, but they differ according to color, cut style, and price point. Diamonds are graded on their quality depending on four Cs.
The Four Cs
The Four Cs entail Cut, Color, Clarity, and Carat weight. Carat weight is measured using a highly accurate calibrated digital scale. Diamond cut refers to the diamond’s symmetry and proportions. This is what differentiates a poorly cut diamond from a well-cut one. Cut determines how much light will be reflected and refracted through the stone to maximize its brilliance or sparkle.
Diamond color refers to its lack of color. The grading scale for diamond color is from D, which has the most color, to Z, which has no visible color. Diamond clarity refers to the number and severity of inclusions (or blemishes) of internal characteristics that can be seen through a 10x jeweler’s loupe under controlled lighting. Clarity is graded on a scale from Flawless to I3, with the latter having significant inclusions and blemishes that are visible without magnification.
After you’ve researched and determined which diamond to buy, several other factors can affect the price.
1. The Shape of a Diamond
Round diamonds are the most popular choice for engagement rings. However, there is also a growing trend towards new and unique diamond cuts such as cushion, princess, and oval shapes. Princess cut diamond engagement rings have recently gained in popularity because of their unique look and ability to maximize the stone’s sparkle by creating more angles. You can also opt for teardrop shape diamonds and cushions, which are designed with pointed ends.
2. The Setting
Diamond engagement rings come in various styles, such as solitaires, halo settings, and three-stone diamond rings. The solitaire is the most classic style ring where there is only one diamond at the center. Halo settings surround your center diamond with smaller diamonds all around it to create a larger fiery look. Three-stone diamond rings have more sparkle and shine because they have an additional side stone on either side of the main diamond that creates depth and draws more attention to the engagement ring when worn.
The setting ring can increase or decrease the price, especially if you go with an unusual design. On average, diamonds set in prong settings will cost less than those set in bezel or channel settings.
3. The Metal Used for the Band
Different metals for rings have varying costs. Platinum is the most expensive because it has a white tone and cool finish that will not wear down over time. However, if you are looking for an alternative to platinum, you can choose from sterling silver, palladium, or white gold. If the ring has other types of stones, such as sapphires or rubies set in it, then the overall price will be affected.
4. Customizations
There are several ways to make diamond engagement rings unique such as engraving them with words or symbols, setting a colored gemstone in the band, and even adding details like filigree work. The level of customization also affects the price of the ring, so you can opt for something simple without any extras or go all out and add embellishments to your diamond engagement ring.
If you are looking to buy an engagement ring, look no further than Markman’s Diamonds. We pride ourselves in being one of Knoxville’s most reputable diamond retailers and have over 45 years of combined industry experience. That means we can offer you expert advice on finding the perfect ring for your sweetheart and a worry-free custom made jewelry shopping experience.