Men's Guide to Buying a Diamond
Now that you've found the perfect woman for you, make sure you find the diamond that suits her perfectly. Because, just as your love for each other is unique, no two diamonds are alike. Each has its own personality and sparkle.
I hate to admit it, but what do I really know about buying a diamond?
If you're like most grooms-to-be, not enough. But, you've come to the right place: Your Love Story® Jeweler is a diamond expert! Because he's a direct importer with Love Story's huge buying power, he can show you a better selection, offer you a better value for your dollar, back it with a better warranty, and give you better credit terms! It's easier than you may think to select a ring that's sure to make your fiancèe's eyes light up. Whether she's discussed her preferences with you or dropped not-so-subtle hints, you don't have to go it alone. Visit your Love Story® Jeweler together and take note of those rings that seem to appeal to her. The enthusiasm of the bride-to-be is your best barometer of what style to select. Later you can return alone and make the purchase.
How do I know I'm buying a quality stone?
This is an important consideration. You should know that the quality of a diamond has nothing to do with size or color alone. But it has everything to do with the 4Cs: Cut, Color Clarity and Carat-weight. These four characteristics are what determine a diamond's quality and value.
CUT: Many people confuse cut with shape. A diamond's cut is what gives it its fire and sparkle. When cut to good proportions, the diamond is better able to handle light, creating more sparkle and scintillation.
COLOR: The best color for a diamond is no color. A totally colorless diamond best allows white light to pass effortlessly through it and be dispersed as rainbows of color. Yes, there are very rare pink, blue and green diamonds. These are known as fancies.
CLARITY: Most diamonds contain very tiny natural birthmarks known as inclusions. However, the fewer and smaller the inclusions are, the less likely it is that they will interfere with the passage of light through the diamond. Diamonds, more than any other gemstone, have the capability to produce the maximum amount of brilliance. Most jewelers have a rating system that will help you understand the clarity of your stone.
Ask your jeweler to let you look through a loupe and explain just what has been discovered about your diamond.
CARAT-WEIGHT: This is the weight of the diamond measured in carats. One carat is divided into 100 points. So a diamond of 75 points weighs .75 carat. Carat weight is the easiest of the 4Cs to determine. But two diamonds of equal weight can have very unequal value, depending on their other characteristics. Fine quality can be found in diamonds of all shapes and sizes. And a fine quality diamond is a little extra weight she'd be pleased to put on.
Your Love Story dealer is the diamond expert and will be happy to explain the 4Cs and show you the differences between various qualities of diamonds. An established jeweler prizes his or her good reputation and will help you choose the best quality diamonds, your primary consideration when making this purchase.
What's the best shape for a Diamond Engagement Ring?
The precision with which your diamond is cut will determine its brilliance, its fire and its ultimate beauty. However, the shape you select is a matter of personal taste. The round is the most popular shape, but there are many others, such as the oval, marquise, pear, emerald and square. Today the emphasis is on simple, elegant designs that highlight the beauty of the diamonds themselves. So, you can never go wrong with the classic diamond engagement ring.
How much should I spend?
All that the diamond engagement ring symbolizes is, of course, priceless. But you do have to be practical. How much should you spend on this significant ring? Today, two months' salary is generally considered a good guideline to follow. Now, that may seem like a lot, but it really isn't when you think about it.
The cost of everything has gone up. And you can't expect to pay the same price for your diamond as your parents did. Fortunately, your diamond engagement ring does have great value and, like love, can grow more precious with time. And unlike other important purchases, this is the one lasting symbol of your love that will last forever. It will be a daily reminder of the rare and precious love you share.
When should I buy a diamond engagement ring?
Some men, after they've popped the question, begin looking for a diamond engagement ring. Then then dream up all sorts of ways of surprising their intended with the ring. Others purchase one on their own and then surprise their fiancèe with a proposal and a diamond engagement ring. Some women wish to make the selection themselves. Whatever feels right to you is the right way.
How do I pay for a diamond engagement ring?
Your Love Story® Jeweler is an expert in finding the perfect credit plan that will make the purchase easy, even if you don't have a credit card, or you've never had credit before! You'll be able to buy her diamond engagement ring and your wedding bands on easy terms, and you'll be building a positive credit history for your new lives together.
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