A loose diamond is a rough diamond cut and polished for use. These diamonds are available for purchase, and you may use them to create any type of jewelry you like.
To learn how to shop for loose diamonds, you must know the 4Cs, and how to separate real from fake diamonds.
What Are the 4Cs of Loose Diamonds?
Diamond lovers live by the 4Cs. Those are:
- Clarity
- Color
- Carat
- Cut
These four characteristics add value to the diamond. How a loose diamond looks, its weight, color, and cut ultimately decide its market value.
What Colors Are Available?
The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) has a grading system that classifies diamonds into color categories that range from icy winter whites to warm summer whites. K-Z refers to warmer colored diamonds, and D-J refers to nearly colorless or colorless diamonds. D is the rarest color because it’s crystal clear, hence its hefty price tag.
What Does Carat Mean?
Many confuse carat for size measure when it actually refers to a diamond’s weight. One carat is equal to 200 milligrams.
We can split one carat into 100 points for a more straightforward value estimation. So, a 50-point diamond is a half-carat diamond.
What Does Clarity Refer to in Loose Diamonds?
Clarity refers to elements in a diamond. GIA devised a measure of perfection known as a clarity grade.
The clarity rating, which runs from F (Flawless) to I (Included), is based on the visibility of inclusions at a 10x magnification.
What Does Cut Mean?
Cut refers to a diamond’s style and shine. No two diamonds are the same, and buyers can often customize the cut. A diamond may reflect more or less light, depending on your chosen type.
How Do I Know Which Loose Diamonds Are Legitimate?
Before you shop for loose diamonds, always ask for grading certificates and standards. The most reliable grading standards in the industry are GIA and AGS.
Professional graders advise shoppers to stick to only GIA or AGS-certified diamonds even if the price is high. After all, diamonds are a long-term investment, and the price will reflect the quality.
How Do You Recognize Unethical Jewelers?
The industry is full of unethical jewelers that sell uncertified diamonds, sacrificing value and quality. Add a low, affordable price to the equation, and they’re sure to attract many first-time buyers of loose diamonds.
Only a GIA or AGS certificate can make an accurate diamond quality assessment. If the seller cannot offer you these certificates, chances are it’s not a real deal.
Plus, having a GIA or AGS certificate will make it easier for you to sell the diamond afterward. You can bargain as much as you want, as no jewelry store will be able to demand a price below the actual evaluation.
What Is a Grade-A Place to Purchase Loose Diamonds?
A trustworthy, highly experienced store is just the place to purchase loose diamonds. And one that checks all the boxes is Village Jewelers.
Our store boasts over 35 years in the premium-jewelry industry, diligently perfecting its craft since 1981. The owners and employees of Village Jewelers are experts in fine custom jewelry, always ready to help and educate customers on fine gems or diamonds.
Contact us for custom jewelry that suits your taste, budget, and needs.