When looking to buy a diamond ring, the old saying, “If it seems too good to be true, it probably is” comes into play. Diamonds have a market price that is determined by the stone’s grading and anything that is lower than the market price should be avoided. Most men who buy diamond engagement rings know next to nothing about these precious stones and there are unscrupulous people who will sell you anything if there is a profit involved. If you are planning to pop the question anytime soon, here are some things to look for when buying diamonds.
- Diamond Certification – Every diamond must be graded and with a reputable organisation like The Gemological Institute of America (GIA), you can be sure of the authenticity of the stone. The diamond would be graded using the 4Cs, Clarity, Cut, Colour and Carat, and if you are planning to get down on one knee, Certified Diamond Network sells wedding rings in Sydney and every stone would be certified. Buying from an established diamond merchant virtually assures that you are getting good value for money, and they would have a wide range of quality rings suitable for every occasion and budget.
- Check Validity – Prior to dealing with any online diamond merchant, you should check that they are, in fact, a registered business and that they have a business premises that you can visit. It is fine to use the Internet to source a reputable diamond dealer, yet you should visit their premises to ensure that all is above board.
- Look for Price Justification – One cannot automatically assume that a low price means the stones are not real. The diamond industry, like any other, has different levels and by dealing with a wholesale diamond merchant, it is possible to land a real bargain. If you happen to come across a diamond that seems very cheap, you can always ask a direct question and see what response you get. There is a narrow margin between high and low prices, but anything that seems ridiculously low should be avoided. It is never a good idea to buy diamonds from a private seller, especially if you have little or no knowledge about precious stones, as there are no guarantees.
- Seek a Professional Opinion – If you are at all unsure about a diamond’s origins, you could ask for an independent evaluation, yet if the stone has GIA certification, this should be enough proof that you are not being scammed.
If you are looking to propose to your fiancée in the near future, make sure you purchase the engagement ring from a reputable diamond jeweller, and one that issues certification with every purchase. An online search is the best place to begin your quest, and with a firm budget in mind and a good idea about her taste in jewellery, you can make initial enquiries and should you find something that fits the bill, pay the jeweller a visit.
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