Diamond Buying Guide
When choosing an engagement ring, use this guide to understand the essentials and buy with confidence.
Carat is the weight of a diamond. One carat = 100 points (0.01ct each). Don’t confuse carat with size—cut and shape also affect how big a diamond appears.
Colour is graded on the GIA D–Z scale. D is the most colourless. In most settings G–H looks white and offers excellent value.
Clarity ranges from FL to SI2+. Aim for “eye-clean” (often VS2 or higher) so inclusions aren’t visible without magnification.
Cut quality controls brilliance and fire. It’s the biggest visual driver—prioritise Excellent/Very Good.
Independent grading (e.g., GIA) confirms a diamond’s characteristics, value and identity. Lab standards differ—compare like-for-like.
Contour is the diamond’s shape and its length-to-width ratio. Larger ratios look longer and slimmer.
Example: Length 1.50 ÷ Width 1.00 = Ratio 1.50
You don’t need the highest grades to get beauty. Price varies with quality, sourcing and manufacture. A well-balanced 7Cs choice maximises look for budget.
Diamonds are enduring—made to be cherished and passed down for generations.