Quick and Easy Buying Guide

Carat weight: 1 carat = 200 milligrams = 6.5 mm diameter. Doubling weight doesn't double diameter.

Diamond clarity: FL/IF/VVS/VS = super expensive, near perfect. SI = best value if you can check a photo for obvious inclusions (defects).

 

Color: D-G = colorless, expensive, only if you have money to burn. H-J = best value. Can go lower in gold metal settings than white metal.

Cut: Better cut ratings let more light into a diamond, making it sparkle more. Very important property, don't skimp here.

Set a budget and minimum cut (Premium). Go J color for gold and I/H for white metals. Go searching for SI1/SI2 clarity diamonds at James Allen. Pick a diamond with small/no inclusions. Choose a ring setting and buy it risk-free (60-day returns).

The Afternoon's Find: A 1.73 Carat G Color SI1 Clarity Ideal Cut Round Cut Diamond

Remembering that the photo is quite magnified, look over it carefully to try and find any big defects and inclusions which are often present in diamonds in the SI clarity range.

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Shape: Round

Carat weight: 1.73

Cut: Ideal

Color: G

Clarity: SI1

Price: $14550

Certificate: GIA

Depth: 61.3%

Table: 55.0%

Polish: Very Good

Symmetry: Excellent

Girdle: Thin to medium

Culet: None

Fluorescence: None

Measurements: 7.75*7.77*4.76

Item number: 1331889

Click here to see the diamond at James Allen.

Click here to search for other diamonds at James Allen.

Several companies will offer an Ideal cut diamond cut grading, and these diamonds are usually (as is the situation here) perfect in terms of proportions and the general shape. Weighing up the $14550 cost of this diamond, make sure you consider whether any of the property qualities are excessive for your needs. If you can view the diamond in person or see zoomed in photos of the diamond (like the one for this SI1 clarity diamond), this is where bargains can be had - identifying an SI1 or SI2 stone that is "eye clean" is a satisfying experience that translates to less dollars spent.

Consider whether you're entirely set on the 1.73 carat weight of this diamond - or whether you can stretch to get a larger stone.

An untrained eye won't see the color in this G color diamond, unless the stone is held up against a higher color grade diamond (something to think about if you're going for a 3 stone ring). The Girdle Thickness of this stone is "Thin to medium" - you can consult my piece on diamond girdles if you want to find out more concerning how girdle thickness can play an important role.

Diamonds are a girl's best friend and a man's worst enemy. Unknown Author .