The average person usually does not have the experience necessary when it comes to choosing a diamond of good quality. It is a much more complicated process than one might think. There are a lot of separate factors that have to be considered before making a final decision. That is why you need to familiarize yourself with a diamond`s counterparts called the four C`s.

The four C`s are the most important words when determining how much the value of a diamond should be. Cut, clarity, color, and caret all play their own part in the end conclusion. When you buy a diamond, it should be accompanied with a certificate of authenticity. This should list the four C`s and state the approximate retail value of the stone. Be sure you get a certificate and make your own comparisons between what it says and the diamond itself.

The place where you are purchasing your diamond should loan you a loupe to have a closer, magnified look at the stone. When you look at the diamond, pay close attention to the facets. Their symmetry should be very precise. The preciseness of the cut is what determines the diamonds fire and brilliance. If a diamonds cut is good, it should have a good reflection of light. This reflection of light will give it that glittering, sparkling appearance.

The color of a diamond can vary a great deal. The ideal diamond color is clear white. They can however, range from clear white, to yellow, to brown. The chart for color will range from D thru Z, D being the best, Z being the worst. If you are buying a jewelry piece that has multiple stones, notice the color of all them. They should all match each other in shade. The clarity of a diamond will tell you about the internal and external flaws it has. Since there is practically no such thing as a perfect diamond, the one you purchase will assuredly have some degree of flaws. You certificate of authenticity should tell you how many flaws the diamond has.

For example, if there is a dark or a cloudy spot inside the diamond this is considered an inclusion. If there is a pit, polish line, or scratch on the outer surface this would be a blemish. These flaws are like fingerprints and will help in identifying the diamond if it is lost or stolen.

The fourth C is the diamonds caret weight. This determines how big the diamond is. The size of your wallet will generally decide this last factor of the diamond you purchase. The bigger the size, the more you will pay. By utilizing the four Cs and a little shopping around, you are sure to end up with a great diamond.