The #1 rule is:
To microscope the diamonds.
That’s the most important thing you could do when shopping for loose diamonds, certified diamonds, diamond solitaires, or engagement rings…
You MUST microscope the stone!
Everything about a diamond is microscopic; the cut, the clarity, the faceting, the flaws, the proportions… All the things that affect the beauty and the price of a diamond.
Diamonds are graded under 10x magnification, so they should be viewed under 10x magnification, or stronger. That way you can see why it’s graded the way it is, why it sparkles or looks better than other diamonds of the exact same price (or thousands of dollars different).
All diamonds are unique. All diamonds react with light differently. Some look better than others. Some look 1000% better…
Just like the two diamonds below:
Both are 1 carat diamonds. Both have the exact same clarity (SI1). Both have the same color (J). And both are priced almost exact (just $300 difference). But look at the difference in appearance…
From the average shopper’s viewpoint, these two diamonds would look the same on paper (most people don’t know how to compare cut). So most would be fine with the darker diamond… Until they saw it. Seeing them, and comparing them side by side yields some pretty big flaws. Namely, dark shadows, large tables, facets out of proportion, losing light and life…
This is a visual thing…
One diamond is darker. No doubt. But most other features are microscopic only. Like clarity. Compare the two diamonds below…
These diamonds are priced almost exact… But the microscopic differences are large.
One is an SI2 (eye-clean), the other is an I1 (visual flaws)…
So if you’re shopping for a diamond, please follow the #1 rule:
Always microscope the diamond.
You’ll be able to see the flaws inside the stone. See the actual facets and alignments. You’ll be able to see if the girdle is thick, uneven. See if the stone is thick or lumpy. See if the facets and edges are chipped. See if the culet is large or broken. You’ll be able to scope the diamond from all sides. You’ll also be able to see the inscription on the edge of the girdle. All highly important things. Things you’d never see if you just looked at the diamond with your own eyes (or a stone that was pre-mounted).
That’s why shopping at James Allen is an awesome diamond experience. All their diamonds are magnified (20x), and allow you to spin the stone around so you can see them from all angles. It’s amazing (and much cheaper than mall stores).
Check out these highly recommended diamonds here.
You’ll be glad you magnified.
It’s a big difference in looks… and your pocketbook!
Cheers! :)