A Guide to Buying a Diamond Wisely

1) Choose a Jeweler as you would a Doctor.

At Imperial Jewelry, we are experienced with expert training and education. We are able to answer any questions in clear and simple language. We have 2 Gemologists on Staff with accreditations from Gemological Institute of America (GIA) each as Graduate Gemologist (GG) and Accredited Jewelry Professional (AJP).  We will be able to demonstrate the differences between similar stones and encourage you to compare a number of diamonds that fall into your budget.

2) Understanding the 4Cs of Diamond Quality

This basic knowledge will not only unlock the mystery of a diamond's quality, it will help you understand a diamond's value and price.

Diamond Color In most diamonds, the term actually refers to the absence of color. The less color in the stone, the more desirable and valuable it is. Some of these differences are not visible to the naked eye, but directly impact the overall quality and price of the stone.

Diamond Clarity measures the amount, size and placement of internal 'inclusions,' and external 'blemishes.' Grades run from 'Flawless,' with virtually no imperfections, to 'Included,' which contain a significant number of imperfections.

Diamond Cut does not refer to a diamond's shape, but to the proportion and arrangement of its facets and the quality of workmanship. The amount of brilliance, sparkle and fire in a diamond is determined by cut. Grades range from 'Excellent' to 'Poor.'

Diamond Carat refers to a diamond's weight. Generally speaking, the higher the carat weight, the more expensive the stone. Two diamonds of equal carat weight, however, can have very different quality and price when the other three Cs are considered.

No matter how beautiful a diamond may look you simply cannot see its true quality. The 4Cs of diamond quality will provide you with the information you need to know the diamond's actual quality.

3) Insist on a Diamond Grading Report

A diamond grading report from an unbiased, scientific source such as GIA is more than important information, it's proof of what you are purchasing. The differences in diamonds can be so subtle, even a trained jeweler can't recognize them without lab verification. Insist that any diamond you buy come with an indisputable verification of its quality.

4) Purchase Protection

Have your diamond appraised and insured by us. Appraisers and insurers rely on diamond grading reports to accurately evaluate the value of gems. As an additional measure, consider having your diamond laser-inscribed with its GIA report number, to provide verification if it is ever lost or stolen.