How to Buy a Diamond

Whether it's for a momentous occasion or a special gift, buying a diamond in Atlanta can be an overwhelming process. That's why it's essential to understand the basics of buying diamonds in Atlanta before making any purchase. Between the shapes and the settings, there's a lot to consider!

Here, we'll cover the four Cs—cut, color, clarity, and carat—diamond shapes, and settings so you can have a more informed browsing experience when you buy diamonds in Atlanta.

The Four Cs

When it comes to diamond quality, the four Cs—cut, color, clarity, and carat—are the most important factors when choosing your perfect diamond.

1. Cut

This tool is how you can measure how well a diamond has been crafted into its shape. A good cut will make the diamond appear brighter and more vibrant. A quick guide on how to identify this is by looking for symmetry, brilliance, and scintillation.

2. Color

The color of a diamond is not just a visual color, it's determined by how much color it absorbs from the light. A higher grade on this scale means fewer colors are absorbed and vice versa. If you’re looking for a more vibrant diamond, go with one that’s closer on the scale to “D”—the highest grade. But if you're looking for something more unique or with a lower price tag, then go for a color closer to “Z”.

3. Clarity

Clarity is determined by the inclusions which are the natural or man-made imperfections in a diamond. A higher grade means fewer and less visible imperfections, while a lower grade means more visible inclusions. Barely visible, these tiny marks presented within a diamond can only be seen with magnification. Most diamonds will have some form of inclusion, but those graded at F or higher are considered to have no visible blemishes.

This means that when it comes to clarity, don't expect perfection—it's all about selecting a diamond that meets what you're looking for.

4. Carat

Carat is a term that refers to the weight of a diamond. Larger diamonds are usually more expensive, but this doesn’t necessarily mean they are higher quality. A good way to identify if a carat is worth its price is by taking into account the other Cs. Soon enough, you'll be a diamond-picking expert.

Diamond Shapes

Diamond shapes are the silhouettes that a diamond is cut into. Here’s a list of the most popular shapes:

• Round
• Princess
• Cushion
• Oval
• Emerald
• Pear
• Marquise
• Heart
• Radiant
• Asscher 

You can choose from a range of shapes and sizes to find the one that fits you best.

Settings

When diamonds are mounted on a piece of jewelry, they are held in place by the setting. There are many different settings available to choose from, each with its style and unique design elements that can enhance the look of the diamond. Check out the following common design settings:

• Solitaire
• Halo
• Cathedral or 3-Stone Setting
• Vintage Inspired Settings
• Channel Set Bands 

The style of your setting is up to you, so take the time to explore different settings until you find one that speaks to you and works with the occasion you may be buying the diamond in Atlanta for whether it's an engagement ring or a mothers day gift.

Put Your New Diamond Knowledge to the Test at Solomon Brothers

Buying a diamond doesn't have to be a stressful experience. With the right knowledge of the basics of diamonds, you'll be able to make an informed decision and get the perfect diamond that suits your needs. From learning about the four Cs to exploring different shapes and settings, now you know how to buy a diamond in Atlanta!

Find the perfect ring, necklace, or set of earrings at Solomon Brothers. Our highly experienced team of diamond specialists can help you make the perfect pick. Ready to buy diamonds in Atlanta? Contact us today to get started!