Why You Should Buy Loose Diamonds - And How They Are Graded And Priced

By Author: jacksmith
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Just like any other investment, when you are looking to buy loose diamonds, there will be several things you will need to consider, and questions to ask yourself. This information will help to guide you in your choices and inform you what to look for. Firstly ask yourself why you should buy loose diamonds, it could be for a variety of sound reasons:-
As an investment?
As a future gift for a child or loved one?
To have a special ring made?
For pair of earrings, a bracelet, or a pendant perhaps?
To set into a pair of cufflinks, tiepin or other male jewellery?
To ensure you have well matched diamonds for 2 identical wedding rings and an engagement ring made to your specifications?
The next thing you will need to consider is your budget. Don't go looking at all the most expensive loose diamonds on the market, you are likely to become very disheartened if you only diamonds that are way above what you can comfortably afford. There are many beautiful loose diamonds to choose from in any budget range, so have you budget set and don't look outside it. Widen your scope by looking on the ...
... internet because if you only go to a retail outlet, you will only have the choices available there, whereas on the internet the choices are almost limitless.
Gain some knowledge about what you are looking for. Diamonds are cut and polished into a large variety of sizes and shapes. Your choice will naturally depend on the intended purpose of your loose diamonds.
How Are Loose Diamonds Valued?
Your first lesson is the 4C's of diamond classification. They are: cut, colour, clarity and carat (weight). These determine diamond's value, and depending on your preference, any one of these C's may be more important to you than another.
For some the CUT is the most important factor because cut refers to the proportions, symmetry and finish of a polished diamond. There is a mathematical formula used in the cutting of diamonds that ensures the maximum brilliance and fire in the stone is achieved. A well cut diamond reflects the most light and therefore sparkles more.
Diamonds come in all colours of the rainbow with the most valuable being colourless. Truly colourless diamonds are very rare and therefore very expensive. Colour can be best determined by looking at the loose diamond on a pure white surface. Colour is graded on a scale established by the GIA (Gemmological Institute of America), and range from D (the Best Blue white colourless) to Z (dark coloured), depending on how yellow they look.
A lot of people consider the Carat to be the most important. Carat refers to the weight of the diamond (not the size). A carat is 200 milligrams and one carat is made up of 100 points. Because large diamonds are so rare, they generally have a greater value per carat.
Clarity refers to the internal imperfections and the external irregularities that affect the passage of light through the diamond. Imperfections such as mineral deposits, lines or spots are known as inclusions. The fewer inclusions in the diamond, the more valuable it is.
The best guarantee you can get when you buy your loose diamonds is to receive a certificate from an independent diamond grading laboratory and not just the retailer. This should include an analysis of each of the 4C's with a clarity diagram showing the position of any inclusions. This certificate is also useful for insurance purposes and for identification if your loose diamonds are stolen or lost.
Ensure that the diamond you purchase is graded and certified by a reputed diamond grading laboratory. The most respected diamond grading labs are GIA (Gemological Institute of America), HRD Antwerp, AGS (American Gem Society) My Diamonds Fine Jewellers (Australia)
www.MyDiamonds.com.au
Wide range of diamonds at very competitive prices
Find more related information on Loose Diamonds and diamonds please visit at http://www.mydiamonds.com.au