This post is for the those who are ready to pop the question, but not sure what ring to get. Hopefully when you finish reading this (promise to keep it relatively short) you will have a better idea on what you look for when purchasing a ring.
As most people know the 4 things to look for when getting a ring is Carat, Cut, Clarity, and Color!
Carat weight: For most women, this means the bigger the better! Gems are measured in carats and carat weights are given points, with one carat = 100points. So the more points the better!
Cut: A diamond’s sparkle is determined by the angles and proportions to which it is cut. The cut should not be confused with its shape (round, oval, marquise, etc.). Cuts have 5 grades: Excellent, Very Good, Good, Fair, and Poor. You will get your BEST bargains in the Good grade of cut. Some sparkle is forfeited for size in this category.
Clarity: The number of inclusions (flaws that are categorized as marks, cracks, chips, etc.) establishes a diamond’s classification: Flawless (F), Very Very Slightly Included (VVS1,2), Very Slightly Included (VS1,2), Slightly Included (SI1,2) and Included (I1,2,3). Stones classified SI1 and better are considered “eye clean”, meaning no flaws are visible to the naked eye. Best deals are in the SI classification.
Color: The GIA’s color-coding chart starts with D-F, the “colorless” ideal; G-J, almost colorless; K-M, a hint of yellow; N-R, very light yellow; and S-Z, light yellow.
Once a diamond reaches a carat level, its price climbs, so go with a weight slightly under the carat mark you are targeting. For example, it you want a two-carat ring, shop for those at 1.9 – the difference in size will be hard to notice, and you will save!
The round brilliant-cut shape is the most expensive; choose one of the “fancy” shapes – marquis, princess, oval, emerald – which are less expensive.
Hopefully this gives you a start as you search for the perfect ring! Happy hunting!!
Picture from: www.emitations.com
