Man’s Guide: What do I need to look for in a ring
Knowing where to start looking is actually harder than it should be, with the vast variety of choice that is available. Luckily, research is readily obtainable and with some basic knowledge, you’ll be more confident when making a purchase, thus making it harder for the sales person to pull the ‘wool over your eyes’.
Before feeling overwhelmed, go online for information. It’s free. You’ll learn about how people in the industry grade the diamonds that are sold. You’ll also learn about the industry standards, like the 4Cs of diamonds and how they influence their beauty and value.
The 4 C’s are four variables that are used to calculate the value of a diamond — Clarity, Colour, Cut, and Carat.
Most diamonds contain some inner flaws, or inclusions, that occur during the formation process. The visibility, number and size of these inclusions determine what is called the clarity of a diamond. Diamonds that are clear create more brilliance, and thus are more highly prized, and priced.
Colour describes the amount of colour the diamond contains. This can range from colourless to yellow with slight tints of yellow, grey or brown. Colours can also range from intense yellow to brown, blue, green, pink and red. These fancy colours are rare and therefore more valuable.
Cut refers to the proportions, finish, symmetry, and polish of the diamond. These factors determine the fire and brilliance of a diamond. Well cut diamonds are more expensive poorly cut diamonds which sell at discounted prices.
Carat is the unit of weight for the diamond. A carat is further subdivided in 100 points (0.01 carat = 1 point). One carat is equal to 0.20 grams. Because of their rarity, the value per carat will increase as the carat size increases. In other words, 2 half-carat diamonds taken together will not cost as much as 1 one-carat diamond.
When you know what you are looking for, get back online and do a search for internet diamond specialists. Visit these online stores and check out what they offer. Then compare this to a jewellery retailer and make your selection.