Thinking about popping the question? 

It's important to get educated because it's a big investment.  Jewelers will offer Certified Loose Diamonds and mountings separately to allow you to have more choices. Many engagement ring mountings can accommodate  different sizes and shapes for the center diamond.

There are many different cuts or shapes for a diamond. Round brilliant cut is a popular choice with good reason.  This cut was designed to give you maximum impact.  Weight distribution and faceting enable this cut to really shine.  In addition, there are many other beautiful shapes to consider.

Learn About Diamonds

When learning about diamonds, you may come across the term GIA certified loose diamonds. Certified means that an independent lab has graded the diamond.  It is valuable to have because usually these labs are widely known and respected.

A certificate will contain a lot of information. At first, you may look at it and wonder what it all means or if you really even need any of it.  After careful consideration, you will see that it is a helpful tool in getting to know your diamond.  The diamond is graded separately, not in a mounting.  Also, there is no pricing information on the cert itself.

The cert will have a number exclusive to that particular diamond. It will be dated and also may map out the imperfections.  The weight is expressed in carats.  100 points = 1 carat.  For example, 75 points = .75 ct. or 3/4 carat.  The shape and cut will also be listed.  The shape can be round brilliant, princess, marquise, pear ,cushion , the list goes on.  Every shape has certain proportions that need to be met to be considered a good cut.  The proportions of the cut determine the way the light enters and exits the diamond, meaning how much sparkle and brilliance it has.

The clarity grade tells about the natural inclusions or imperfections in the diamond.  Most natural diamonds have inclusions that you may or may not notice with the naked eye.  It is usually acceptable to most people if they can't really notice a minor inclusion.  Color actually describes the absence of color.  colorless or white diamonds are usually desired.   Looking at the diamond itself in natural light is always the best way to appreciate it's characteristics.  You may see two diamonds with similar certs but when compared, one may stand out as the clear winner.  Considering all these things when searching for Certified Loose Diamonds will help you to make the best choice.

Brian Michaels Jewelers www.brianmichaelsjewelers.com