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The Four
C’s: the key to buying a
diamond engagement ring
The diamond engagement ring has been a
symbol of love and romance since 1477 when
Archduke Maximilian of Austria gave Mary of
Burgundy a gold ring set with a diamond as a
token of his love. Today, the tradition of
the diamond engagement ring continues.
According to new consumer survey, 70 percent
of all brides-to-be receive one. A
diamond is an expression of individuality.
Just as love is unique, no two diamonds are
alike. Each diamond has its own
personality and sparkle. Therefore, when
purchasing a diamond engagement ring, it is
important to become an informed consumer.
A little knowledge can go a long way to help
unearth the best-quality diamond within a
budget. Understanding diamonds requires
knowledge of the four C’s: cut, color,
clarity, and carat weight. These four
variables are key to answering the elusive
question as to why diamonds of equal size
may not be of equal value.
CUT-Although
diamonds can be cut in several shapes, like
oval, marquise, pear, or round, it is the
quality of the cut that gives the stone a
brilliant sparkle. Light is reflected best
when all of the facets are perfectly
proportioned.
COLOR-The best color is no color. A
totally colorless diamond best allows white
light to pass effortlessly through it and be
dispersed as rainbows of color.
CLARITY- The term “clarity”
refers to a diamond’s lack of naturally
occurring inclusions, often called
“nature’s fingerprints,” most of which
are not visible to the naked eye. The fewer
inclusions, the more valuable the diamond.
CARAT-Carat refers to the weight of
the stone. There are too points in a carat.
Therefore, a diamond of 50 points weighs
one-half of a carat.
Deciding how much to spend on diamond
engagement ring is a very personal and
obviously depends on income. Most people
find the two months’ salary guideline to
be helpful in determining how much to spend.
Most importantly, choose the finest-quality
diamond affordable, because a diamond
engagement ring is a unique symbol of
commitment that will be treasured for many
years. |
