Diamond Buying Tips

• First of all, a little education goes a long way.  Be sure to educate yourself on the four Cs — cut, carat, clarity, and color.  Knowing a little bit about diamonds and which questions to ask will ensure you get what you pay for.
• Jewelry pricing can be pretty complex, so your best bet when comparing prices is to compare diamonds of the same size, shape, cut, color, and clarity, as well as those that have similar mountings.
• Instead of comparing the total cost of diamonds, compare per-carat diamond prices.  How do you do this?  By multiplying the carat weight times the price per carat.
• Know what the diamond you are considering has been through.  In other words, is the diamond natural, or has it been treated.  Generally speaking, untreated diamonds are more valuable than treated diamonds.  If the salesperson uses words like "processed" or "enhanced," those are just fancier ways of saying that the diamond has been treated.  Treatments processes are so sophisticated it can be hard for even a jeweler's trained eye to discern processing.  Some jewelers send their diamonds to labs to ensure they have been untreated, while others only purchase from sources that guarantee the sale of untreated stones.
• Know that all grades are not created equal.  Jewelers will grade their diamonds differently, so it's important for you to know a bit about how to judge a diamond for yourself.  Some labs also have more stringent grading standards than others.  It's important that what appears on the certificate appears to be what you see.
• Buyer beware! If diamonds are advertised at a significantly reduced price, there is most likely something wrong with them.  Also, if you buy loose diamonds on eBay, be sure you are dealing with a reputable seller.  Be very careful before you buy!
• Be realistic.  Come up with a budget, as well as the type of ring you would like.  Compromising is key if you want to stay within budget and find a good buy.  Decide which of the four Cs are most important to you, and which you can compromise on.
• Get the lab report for your diamond, especially if it is expensive.  A lab report is basically an independent assessment of your stone, and will ensure that you haven't bought a treated or processed diamond.
• Finally, ask yourself if you love the diamond.  Is it brilliant and does it sparkle?  Does it look good on your hand and fit your lifestyle?  Remember, the best diamond for you is the one you love the most.

Loose Diamond Dealer

• DiamondSafe.com
  
  This international diamond manufacturing group has partnerships in New York, South Africa, Israel, and the Far East.
  www.DiamondSafe.com

Loose Diamonds at eBay Auctions

Buying Loose Diamonds