Common Diamond-Buying Mistakes

Even the most experienced jewelry shoppers sometimes make mistakes when buying diamond rings. We will discuss some of the most common diamond-buying blunders here.

1. Buying according to price and not value. Too often, shoppers buy diamond rings based on their prices rather than their overall value. Remember that the price of a diamond ring is irrelevant if it can't offer quality and value. A ring that is more expensive but offers a higher-quality stone is usually a better value than a cheap ring with a poor-quality stone.
2. Disregarding body type. The wearer's body type should influence your decision on the style and size of the diamond ring you purchase. If the intended wearer has small, thin fingers, diamond rings with large carat weights will be unflattering. Similarly, if the wearer has large, round fingers, a small stone will draw attention to the girth of the fingers. You should choose the size of your diamond according to the build of the wearer.
3. Accepting any kind of certificate. A diamond certification is worthless unless it is issued by a reputable gemological laboratory. When you shop for diamond rings, look for jewelers that offer certificates issued by the AGLS or GIA. Of course, you should avoid jewelers altogether who offer no certification at all.
4. Buying without a warranty. Never buy a diamond ring that doesn't come with a warranty. Some jewelers will offer lifetime warranties against certain defects, and almost all jewelers offer at least a 30-day money-back guarantee. You might also want to look for diamond rings that come with perks like free cleanings, sizing, maintenance inspections, etc.
5. Confusing an appraisal with a certification. An appraisal is an estimate of a diamond's worth, but it does not offer any evidence of its quality, characteristics, or authenticity. Don't purchase diamond rings that offer an appraisal report but no certification. Almost anyone can perform an appraisal, but a certification must be performed by an accredited gemological laboratory.
6. Not researching the seller. Diamond rings are a large investment that you don't want to buy from just anyone. You should research your seller thoroughly to make sure that they provide quality pieces and excellent customer service. Look for jewelers endorsed by the Better Business Bureau and ask your family and friends for their recommendations.
7. Purchasing diamond rings without professional assistance. Whether you talk to a jeweler personally or simply research diamond information on reputable Websites, you should seek out some type of guidance before you buy a diamond ring. Trying to navigate the diamond-buying process without professional assistance will lead to poor decisions and buyer's remorse.