Buying the bling!
When it comes to diamond rings, the thought of buying one might have you feeling a bit lost. You walk through the jeweler's and just dodge the salespeople, not even sure where to start. Have no fear - I'll try and break it down for you.
Price
Speaking of price, what's the real deal, you ask? You want your baby to have the best, but how do you know you're spending the right amount - or spending enough? A general rule of thumb is to spend two to three months' salary. But be real. If you're paying for the wedding, a house, and two car payments, baby will understand. Set your limit, stick to it and maximize the 4 Cs to get the most bling for your buck.
The 4 Cs
Listen up - there are four factors in diamonds. They are commonly called 'the four Cs': Carat, Cut, Color, and Clarity. Understanding them will let you talk the talk so you can judge the value you're getting for your hard-earned money.
Carat
Carats refer to the size, or weight, of a diamond. The more it weighs the more dough you'll spend. Don't just go for size, though. You can buy her the biggest rock in the world BUT if it's a poor cut, color, or clarity, more than the diamond will lose its sparkle. Set the minimum size diamond that you think will give her enough bling and spend your money on the other factors.
Cut
The cut of a diamond is just that - the way it was cut into its shape. There are standard shapes - round, princess, emerald, pear, etc. The shape and proportion of the cut affects the overall look and sparkle, so most women have a favorite. If she's clued you in on what she wants, you're set. But if not, get some help. Ask the jeweler what's hot and trendy. Or ask your girl's best friend or sister. Don't guess, man. Women can have serious opinions about the cut. If she hates pear-shaped diamonds and you give her one, everything else will mean zilch.
Color (GIA Color Grading Scale)
This one's easy. Diamonds are graded on a color scale ranging from D (colorless) to Z (warmer colored). The closer you get to the D rating, the rarer, more expensive and generally more appealing the diamond will be. Most people find colors D through L to be the most attractive, but go to a jewelry store and check out the difference. You really can't tell G-Js and D-Fs apart without a microscope. So do what you got to do. Just don't go farther in the alphabet than L - unless she likes yellow(ish) diamonds.
Clarity (GIA Clarity Grading Scale)
You're almost done, bro. Clarity is another way of saying quality. Diamonds can have flaws like fractures or mineral deposits. These are called inclusions. They make the diamond look dull or cloudy. The more inclusions and the more visible they are, the lower the clarity. Check out the scale below.
Good luck fellas!
