A well-cut diamond reflects light internally from one facet to another and disperses it through the top.
In the 1940s, the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) established the 4 Cs. This system remains the global standard for assessing diamond quality and determining price. 1. Cut (The Engine of Sparkle) how to buy a diamond
Appear white to the naked eye but cost significantly less. A well-cut diamond reflects light internally from one
To save money, buy just below the magic numbers. A 0.90-carat diamond will cost significantly less than a 1.00-carat diamond but will look virtually identical in size. Shape and Setting buy just below the magic numbers.
Aim for an "eye-clean" diamond. Many VS2 and even SI1 diamonds have inclusions that are invisible without a microscope. Paying for a higher clarity grade that you cannot see with the naked eye is a common beginner mistake. 4. Carat (The Physical Weight)
To maximise value, look for diamonds in the G–H range. They appear icy white when set in a ring but offer massive savings compared to D–F stones. 3. Clarity (The Measure of Purity)