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5 Things to Consider When Natural Diamond Shopping

August 5th, 2024

Two diamond engagement rings and four loose diamonds on a reflective surface next to decorative branches.

For centuries, natural diamonds have been the epitome of elegance and enduring beauty, making them the gem of choice in both fashion and bridal jewelry. Their incredible durability ensures they remain timeless treasures passed down through generations, while still maintaining their innate beauty. When selecting the perfect diamonds for a custom piece, it's essential to consider multiple factors known as the 4 Cs to guarantee the gem's quality, value, and authenticity. The knowledgeable staff at Rogers Jewelry Co. offers an extraordinary selection of loose diamonds that are selected for their beauty and quality, perfect for creating your bespoke jewelry. Explore our collection and experience the unmatched value and splendor of natural diamonds today.

Cut

Critical to its brilliance, a diamond’s cut determines how well the stone reflects light, influencing its overall sparkle. A well-cut diamond will have the maximum amount of light return, making it shine beautifully. From round brilliant to princess cut, the precision of the cut enhances the stone’s natural allure as well as creating a distinctive shape. It's the factor that most affects a diamond's beauty. Investing in a superior cut means your diamond will captivate with its mesmerizing play of light.

A close-up of three round cut, loose diamonds on a beige-pink surface.

Color

When it comes to diamonds, color is a key consideration that impacts both aesthetics and overall value. While slight tints of color can also be charming, the most sought-after diamonds are colorless. A general lack of color creates a more translucent diamond, allowing them to reflect more light and exhibit exceptional brilliance. Understanding the color grading scale, which ranges from D (colorless) to Z (light yellow), helps you make an informed choice for a high-quality yet affordable diamond. A diamond’s color can dramatically affect its appearance and price, making this an essential consideration for any purchase.

Clarity

Referring to a diamond’s purity and how physically pristine it is, clarity is another important factor to consider. Clarity is graded from Flawless to Included, with various levels in between indicating how many visual or structural imperfections a diamond has. Fewer inclusions and blemishes mean a clearer diamond, which enhances its beauty and overall value, while more imperfections create a shabbier diamond. High clarity also ensures that the diamond’s inner light is unobstructed. Evaluating a diamond’s clarity helps determine its visual purity and overall quality, ensuring that the gem you choose is truly spectacular.

Three white gold solitaire diamond engagement rings stacked together on a piece of fabric.

Carat Weight

Measuring a diamond’s size, carat weight is a key determinant in a diamond's value. Larger diamonds are rarer and often more valuable, but personal preference and balance with the other C's are essential for the perfect selection. The carat weight is not the sole determinant of a diamond's value— its cut, color, and clarity are equally important. For example, a diamond could have a substantial carat weight, but if its color, cut, and clarity are all lacking, then it would not be as valuable as a much smaller, higher quality diamond. Understanding how carat weight influences size and appearance can help you choose a diamond that meets your desires while staying within your selected budget.

Certification

While not part of the 4Cs of diamond grading, certification is also incredibly important. Providing assurance, certification verifies the diamond's attributes and overall quality. Certified diamonds have been evaluated by experts, offering greater peace of mind regarding your gem’s authenticity and value. Trusted gemological laboratories, such as GIA or AGS, issue certificates that detail the diamond’s characteristics, and how it is graded according to the 4Cs. This documentation is crucial for verifying that your diamond purchase meets only the highest standards of quality and integrity.

close up image of a diamond engagement ring with a large center stone sitting on black leather

Discover Gorgeous Diamonds at Rogers Jewelry Co. 

Discover the perfect diamond at Rogers Jewelry Co., with locations in Modesto, Elk Grove, Folsom, Fresno, Bakersfield, and San Luis Obispo, California, as well as in Reno, Nevada. Explore our breathtaking selection of designer engagement rings, including elegant diamond solitaires and the exceptional brilliance of diamond jewelry by renowned designer Fire & Ice. Our in-house custom design services allow you to create a unique piece that captures your vision. Visit us today to begin your shopping journey, or book an appointment for a personalized consultation with one of our knowledgeable team members.