Engagement rings and diamonds are typically always considered together, however most people have very little understanding of what makes a diamond a good selection of not. Diamonds in engagement rings or any other type of jewelry are graded on four different aspects or components. These four components include cut, clarity, carat and color .
Engagement ring settings with solitaire type diamonds are going to require the most flawless diamond possible that has good carat, cut and clarity in order to really shine and sparkle. Carat refers to the actual weight of the diamond. Each carat is equal to 0.2 grams and with a bit of practice it is easy to tell what general carat a diamond is.
Many diamonds have a faint hint of color, often yellow, which makes them less desirable that completely colorless diamonds. Color in diamonds is only desirable in the true fancy or colored diamonds. G grade diamonds are good for engagement rings but anything with more color may not be acceptable. Very faint and almost unnoticeable yellow colorations in some diamonds may work with yellow gold settings and should not be discounted for this so subtle coloration.
Diamonds for engagement rings should be free from external or internal marks, blemishes or bubble type formations. Inclusions inside the diamond will impact on reflection of light and damages to the surface will likewise detract from the appearance of the gem. Engagement rings that feature large solitaire diamonds should have the highest clarity since they are the focus of the ring. Slight imperfections are common in almost all but the most expensive diamonds and in small diamonds they are often so slight as to be virtually invisible. It is also important to choose ring settings that compliment a solitaire diamond rather than compete with the diamond.
Facets in the cut of the diamond create the ability of the diamond to reflect light within its center. This reflection causes the fire or shimming color qualities of a good diamond. Engagement rings with perfect cut will capture all aspects of light and really enhance the appearance of the diamonds, regardless of their carat size. This aspect of diamonds is very important in making a selection.
Getting to know a bit about the 4 C's of diamonds takes just a bit of time and practice. Looking at antique engagement rings is a good way to start, especially if you know what the diamond description is in the ring. This practice will help you in moving forward when shopping for diamonds to put in a setting or in traditional types of engagement rings .
Selecting engagement rings that feature diamonds with the best possible cut, color, clarity and carat takes some time and a lot of learning. Talking with professionals that work with diamonds can help you determine just what to look for in engagement rings and diamonds .
