Diamond Quality: 5 Misconceptions a Novice Should Steer Clear Of
Diamonds represent luxury and beauty, attracting generations of jewelry lovers over centuries. Women love to flaunt these precious treasures, and they also make the best gifts to pass on as ancestral heritage. Not surprisingly, jewelry lovers and collectors are happy to shell out thousands to add these stunning stones to their collections.
Statistics show that the global sales value of rough diamonds in 2021 was a whopping $16.4 billion. After polishing, the value of these rough stones nearly doubled to $28 billion. The diamond jewelry market worldwide was valued at approximately $87 billion in the same year. These numbers matter to individual buyers. Even if you want to buy a single piece of diamond jewelry, you should set aside a good sum.
As a novice, price isn’t the only reason to feel overwhelmed. You may struggle to assess the quality of diamonds, even after researching the 4Cs. Moreover, numerous misconceptions can cloud your judgment and lead you astray as a beginner.
Here is a list of misconceptions you should steer clear of to choose wisely:
Misconception #1: Size Matters the Most
For a first-timer, it is easy to drool over Mariah Carey’s 35-carat engagement ring or Paris Hilton’s 24-carat rock. But they are celebrities, and you cannot get even close to them. Of course, size does matter because it draws attention toward a wearer, but it is definitely not the most important thing about a diamond.
When it comes to buying your first precious one, you should evaluate the 4Cs: Carat weight, Cut, Color, and Clarity. Thankfully, you can get tons of information about these 4Cs online. You may also talk to a seasoned diamond expert or someone who loves buying these stones. Focus on these points instead of falling for the biggest stone.
Misconception #2: Round Is the Best Cut
The round cut is definitely the most popular in diamond rings, with stars like Miley Cyrus, Mila Cunis, and Alison Brie rocking the shape. The symmetry and sparkle of the shapemake it special. Notably, round diamonds are also the most expensive of all cuts. Beginners often assume that a round shape is the best because it costs more and is endorsed by celebrities.
Once again, this is a myth you should avoid because oval, square, and pear-shaped stones can be as alluring and valuable as their round counterparts. Rest assured, you will find popular divas flaunting them.Beyoncé and Mariah Carey own an epic emerald cut, and Kim Kardashian and Sofia Vergara wear the cushion cut. You will find plenty of options once you start exploring.
Misconception #3: Only Colorless Stones Are Valuable
If you think that only colorless diamonds are valuable, you should get your facts right. These stones are available in a range of colors, from shades of light yellow to brown, and they make a great investment. Stunning pink hues also exist, as seen on https://www.leibish.com/pink-diamonds. Blue, green, red, gray, black, violet, and purple are other hues you can check.
According to the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), diamond colors are graded on a scale from colorless (D) to light yellow or brown (Z). Colorless diamonds are highly valued, but not everyone can afford the most expensive ones. Leibish recommends designs featuring colored diamonds for their exquisite appeal. The best part is that they may fit into your budget.
Misconception #4: You Should Buy Only Flawless Diamonds
GIA states that flawless diamonds are very rare. Even the most seasoned jewelers and designers spending a lifetime in the industry may not see one. Moreover, they command top prices not everyone can afford. For a novice with a tight budget, owning a flawless piece is a myth. You should overcome this mindset and look for a quality stone matching other quality specifications.
Most diamonds have internal or external imperfections that may or may not be visible unless you look closely under magnification. You can find a stone with slight inclusions that cannot be seen with the naked eye. They look beautiful and offer excellent value for money.
Misconception #5: Two Identically Graded Diamonds Are the Same
Buying a certified diamond is the best piece of advice for a novice because it ensures quality and value for money. But you may sometimes find the facts and numbers confusing. For example, two diamonds with the same grading may have different pricing. You surely want to opt for the one that is less expensive.
At such times, you should check both stones carefully and look for flaws or inclusions visible to the naked eye. You may find minute differences in the color and clarity of stones on close examination. Trust your instincts and buy the better one, even if you have to pay a little more. Alternatively, consult an expert to pick wisely.
Conclusion
Buying your first diamond is a thrilling experience, but you should look beyond the beauty and luster. A diamond is a lifelong investment that may stay in your family for generations. You should consider the essentials of diamond buying and avoid these misconceptions to pick the best gemstone for your collection. Learn as you go to build an alluring treasure.