We understand that buying a diamond is an important decision for you since it involves large investment. Diamonds are always considered special, and nowadays popularity of diamond jewelry is experiencing a substantial growth.

However, we also agree that most of us don't have any idea regarding testing the genuineness and quality of the stone. Therefore, you have to put trust on the merchant. Introduction of carats or certificates is definitely successful in eliminating some hurdles while purchasing diamonds but one still needs to know the basic parameters to understand the information given on the certificate.

Predominantly, a diamond is tested on the 4Cs which are – Carat, Cut, Clarity and Color. These are the factors that are important in deciding the price of the stone. The testing agencies apply gradation scale in assessing a stone for these four factors. It can be confusing for a first time buyer to understand the different aspects of a perfect diamond. This information will help you understand the factors that determine the prices of a stone.

• Carat - Carat is the unit used to measure weight of gemstone and pearls.

• Cut - The brilliance of the stone depends on the cut. It is the most crucial factor in determining the price of a stone. The stone is prepared and carefully different facets are created. When light falls on the stone it gets refracted. There are a variety of accepted cuts available in the market each is slightly different from the other one. The most popular cuts of diamond are – Ideal, Very good, Good, Fair and Poor.An ideal cut is when almost all light that enters the stone gets reflected allowing the stone to shine brilliantly. It is the most exquisite cut and rare. When the cut is shallow the light passes through its bottom and when it is deep the lights slips through the sides. A good cut is when most light is reflected back from the stone.

This represents almost 25% of the diamonds available in the market and is less expensive than a very good cut diamond.

• Color- Diamonds are evaluated on a gradation scale on their whiteness. The whiter or nearly colorless a diamond is, the higher the price. On a scale, D is considered the highest possible color grade and Z the lowest. The purists will consider only the highest grade diamonds between D–F. But, these stones are also very rare and expensive.

For good value of your money, look for diamond between the grade G and I which indicates near colorless diamonds.

• Clarity- Clarity measures the degree of natural imperfections on a stone. It has least impact on the brilliance and appearance of the diamond but considered when you are a purist or looking for a stone that is nearly flawless. Often these imperfections are microscopic and don't interfere with the beauty of the stone.

Clarity of a diamond is measured on a scale with values such as – FL, IF (flawless or internally flawless), VVS1, VVS2 (Very, Very Slightly Included), SI1, SI2 (Slightly Included) and I1 (Included). For a good value for money select a diamond with no visible inclusion to naked eye when seen through the crown.Apart from these factors, another important factor to influence your buying decision is the shape of the diamond. Some popular shapes are – Round, Princess, Emerald, Asscher, Marquise, Oval, Radiant, Pear, Heart and Cushion.

Choose wisely! After all, Special things seek Special attention.