Whether you’re choosing an engagement ring or simply splurging on a pair of Oscar-worthy earrings, purchasing quality diamond jewelry can be difficult. Many consumers in Knoxville simply don’t have enough diamond buying know-how, and they may end paying too much money for sub-standard gemstones. If you plan on visiting a Knoxville Jewelry store to buy diamonds, keep reading for some helpful tips that will help you get the best jewels you can afford.
Look at the Color
All diamonds are graded on a color scale of D to Z, with D-rated diamonds being nearly colorless with the best light reflection, and Z-rated diamonds being yellow-tinted with the dullest appearance. If you’d like your gems to really sparkle, GQ magazine recommends selecting stones that are rated either D, E or F. However, if budget is a concern, a diamond with a lower color ranking doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll be stuck with lackluster jewels. Simply buy as close to a D ranking as you can afford.
Check the Clarity
A diamond’s clarity grade refers to how many inclusions, or flaws, it has. Typically, the fewer inclusions a diamond has the more expensive it will be. The highest rating for diamond clarity is FL, meaning completely flawless–but these gemstones are few and far between. A rating of IF is the next step down, meaning the gemstone is internally flawless. Still, most experts recommend not worrying too much about clarity. Most inclusions are so small that they’re only visible under magnification. Focus instead on finding a diamond that doesn’t have flaws that are obvious to the naked eye.
Cut is Important
Most people choose their Knoxville Jewelry because they like the shape of a certain diamond cut. However, the cut of a diamond can really affect its brilliance and perceived size, so be careful which cut you choose. For example, if you want your diamonds to sparkle a lot, choose a round brilliant or oval cut. If you want a low-carat diamond to look larger, choose an oval or marquise cut–they have the largest surface area. If you like a lot of interesting facets and aren’t too concerned with size or top-notch brilliance, an emerald or princess cut may be the way to go.
Purchasing diamond jewelry can be confusing, especially if it’s your first time selecting these precious gemstones. If you have further questions, visit Enix Jewelers for more helpful advice.