Choosing the Right Diamond

What to look for when making the big purchase:

The 5C's. Color, Cut, Clarity, Caret and Cost.

Color The color of a diamond is rated from D - Z. The closer you are to D, the closer your diamond is to being colorless. The color gradually gets yellower towards Z. Typically an engagement ring is between D and H. D being the most expensive of course.

Cut The cut of a diamond is the actual shape. Don't be confused by the terminology. Here are your options:
Round - Round (usually the most sparkly)
Princess cut - square
Emerald cut - rectangle
Marquise - like oval but pointy at each end
Oval - oval
Pear - shaped like an almond
Heart - heart
The cut of the diamond determines how much it sparkles, or reflects light.

Clarity Clarity refers to the amount of flaws or imperfections a diamond has or should I say doesn't have. Very few diamonds are totally flawless, and if you do find one, you pay for it. Most flaws or imperfections are not visible to the naked eye. They can only be detected under a microscope. This is how clarity is rated from best to worst.
F= Flawless or IF= Internally Flawless
VVS= Very Very Slightly flawed
VS = Very Slightly flawed
SI = Slightly Included (or slightly flawed)
I = Included (Typically avoided)

Carat Does size really matter? What do you think? The size or weight of your diamond is refered to as Carat. The larger the carat the larger the price (depending on the quality of course).

Cost So all the above factors combined is going to determine the final C, the cost. Set a general price range and then decide which qualities are most important. Be sure to get a Certificate or appraisal to be sure your getting what you pay for.