Tips on Buying Diamond Engagement Ring

So for those who are ready to "bend your knee" and buy a diamond engagement ring, here are some useful tips and information that will help you get the nod:

The 4 C's - A diamond has four vital characteristics that affect its value and price, mainly, color, cut, clarity and carat. All contribute to the quality of the stone but the diamond's cut is most critical factor in determining the glitz of the diamond and its overall brilliance. Color 'G' is also getting popular as bridge-to-be prefers a whiter diamond now.

Size Does Matter

Lately, center stone size has edged upwards from 0.75 carat to 1.25 carats. Women have become more sophisticated and they know what they want. Most ladies want a larger stone than their mothers. Average first-time diamond purchases ranges from $8,000 to $15,000. However, if you have a budget constrain, go for a smaller diamond of higher quality.

Certification - Make sure the diamond is certified either by the GIA (Gemological Institute of America) or AGS (American Gem Society). These "report cards" are highly recognized and it gives you confident about your purchase. When you buy diamond, you want two things - quality and a peace of mind.

It has to be Timeless

No two stones are alike. The ring must be unique and classic that your loved one will like it now and even fifty years later. It has to be so gorgeous that it even sparkles in the dark and she can't wait to show it to the whole world. A diamond solitaire is a safe and classic choice. Followed by a three-stone ring.

Shape and Style

Brilliant Round and Princess-Cut are favored. Platinum setting is gaining popularity, followed by white-gold and yellow gold. Experienced buyer knows that Platinum's whiteness enhances diamonds and it is purer and stronger than the rest.

Timing

When is the right time to buy a diamond? The cheeky answer is when you are so deeply in love. The best timing is Valentine's day, which is no longer a mere flowers & candies occasion. Traditional holiday season (Nov-Dec) is also a hot period for buying this big-ticket item as you usually can buy at a good bargain with all the aggressive promotion activities being launched.