A Guide to Diamond Engagement Rings

Shopping for a diamond engagement ring can be a trying experience if you are unfamiliar with the shapes, sizes, and styles out there.  Diamonds are graded according to a letter system.  The clearer diamonds are situated higher in the alphabet.  Colorless stones are by and large more valuable.  A stone rated J or higher is colorless to the naked eye but may have some microscopic inclusions.

Diamonds also come in a variety of cuts.  The princess cut diamond is fancy.  The round cut diamond is classic and connotes a vintage, almost Victorian sensibility.  You can get more modern cuts, such as Square, as well.  Beyond the cut, diamond shoppers should be concerned with potential flaws in stones.  An FL diamond is utterly flawless, whereas an I2-I3 diamond contains flaws that you can see easily.  In between, you can choose SI diamonds, VSI diamonds, VVS stones, and internally flawless pieces.

Whether you are getting a brilliant round cut, a step cut, or an emerald cut diamond, you are also likely concerned about carat size.  Many unschooled men believe that the larger the carat size, the pricier and better the stone.  However, a size 1.4 carat diamond with D clarity is likely worth much more than a diamond of 2 carats with a Y coloration (near yellow).

Finally, if you do get a large stone or a valuable diamond, consider investing in jewelers insurance.  There are a number of independent jewelry insurance specialists (e.g. Jewelers Mutual).  You can also attach an insurance rider to your home insurance policy or even your driving insurance plan to protect your fine jewelry.