The number one question I get, besides “How much is it?” is which of the Four C’s (cut, color, clarity and carat weight) is the most important when buying a ring. I generally like to talk about all four of the diamond quality factors. It helps facilitate questions from the customers that are focused on the true elements of deciding what diamond to choose.
Cost is not the most important factor when buying a diamond
When looking at the important factors when buying a diamond, it’s important to consider each factor regardless of diamond size. The factors apply regardless of what size or dollar amount a person has in mind. This is why it’s a bad idea to start off with the most common question, “How much is that diamond”? If that’s the first question the conversation goes immediately to dollars and budget rather than to quality and size where it belongs. Stay on topic until you know a little about the product. That Fifth C, cost, will come up when you say so. There is a very helpful smartphone app, GIA 4Cs, which is an educational set of short videos, a good starter for general knowledge of diamond grading.
Educating yourself on the important diamond factors can help you get the best deal
Not all sales staff are trained to correctly grade diamonds. So their main advertising focus is on price, lowest, was X but now only Z. In short, if the most visible companies are talking mainly about price and using words like wholesale, direct from cutter, discount, etc. these are ALL red flag terms that will lead you to a substandard product. Why does this work so well? Think about it, with any other large purchase you have brands, warranty, consumer information, not to mention visible quality factors on cars boats etc. With a diamond ring it goes immediately on a ladies finger, an engagement announcement is made wedding plans begin and among all this excitement the details of the ring purchase fades very quickly
Education is Key to Buying the Right Diamond
There are many important factors to consider when buying a diamond, and it’s important to educate yourself on all of these. A diamond ring can be a considerable investment, and you want to be armed with the best knowledge of what makes a great diamond before you make a purchase. What makes us unique here at Gem Sources is that we are certified gemologists and not just sales people in a jewelry store. We are here to answer your questions and help educate you on the important factors when buying a diamond.