Selecting an engagement ring to symbolize your everlasting love can be an exciting, but intimidating process. Before you jump in head first, take a moment to familiarize yourself with these important diamond qualities so you will be well prepared when it comes time to select the perfect diamond ring.
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Step 1: Select the shape
The shape of the diamond is often confused with the cut. Choose the shape that you like based on your style and you cannot go wrong.
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Step 2: Select the cut criteria
The cut of a diamond determines its brilliance or sparkle. Each shape will be cut differently. Before a diamond is cut, the location of inclusions and flaws, the natural coloration, and the original shape of the rough stone are studied extensively. The stone facets are then mapped out and cut in a way that maximizes size, shape, and clarity. For optimal light performance, you will want a diamond that is cut neither too shallow nor too deep.
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Step 3: Select the color criteria
Diamonds are graded based on the amount of color they do or do not possess. The scale runs from D (colorless) to Z (light yellow). An absolutely colorless diamond is rare and therefore very valuable.
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Step 4: Select the clarity criteria
A diamond is distinguished by its natural characteristics, just as a person would be noted for her blue eyes or his brown hair. Notated as a diamond's clarity, these characteristics can be present on the surface (blemishes) or within the stone (inclusions). The clarity is judged by the number and types of these characteristics and is designated using a scale that runs from Fl, defined as flawless, to I3, defined as inclusions visible with the naked eye. A flawless diamond is truly rare.
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Step 5: Select the carat weight
The unit of measure used for the weight of a diamond is the carat. As a matter of reference, a carat is equivalent to .2 grams or .007 of an ounce. Carat weight can also be divided further by using points. There are 100 points in one carat. So a 1/4 (.25) carat stone can also be expressed as 25 points and mean exactly the same thing. When comparing two diamonds, please note that just because one is twice the carat weight of the other does not mean that it will appear to be twice the size.
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Step 6: Find your perfect ring!
With these criteria in mind, head in to Goodman & Sons to pick out your perfect engagement ring!