How to buy a diamond

Buying a fine diamond isn’t as hard as you may think. This diamond shopping guide shows you the few basic principles you should know before buying a diamond.

1. Learn the basics of the qualities of a fine diamond.
2. Decide which properties of a diamond are most important to you. Make a list, in order of importance, which of the 4 C’s you care most about: Carat, color, clarity or cut.
3. Set a personal budget and stay with this price limit.
4. Insist on a diamond certificate with any diamond you buy. There are several independent labratories out there. The most well-known is GIA, the Gemological Institute of America.
5. Read our guide on how to avoid diamond scams at the jewelry store.