How to Buy a Diamond

We have GIA Certified and Non-Certified diamonds.

Contact us for specifics and availability.

There are few substances in nature, if any, more precious, weight for weight, than a diamond.  And none more lasting.  But a diamond does not start as a gem of marvelous beauty.  It takes many steps and the skills of many craftsmen to bring you the diamond that sparkles in your fine jewelry.

All diamonds are rare, but some are rare than others.  Just like fine wines, watches horses, cars…all diamonds have qualities and characteristics that make them different from each other and more or less valuable.  No two diamonds are the same!

We at Spinelli Jewelers feel that it is important for you to understand those differences.  There are four main characteristics of a diamond that will be explained below:  CUT, COLOR, CLARITY, and CARAT weight (The Four C’s).  There are however, several other characteristics to consider and your Spinelli Jewelers representative will discuss them with you.

Carat  While Karat (with a K) pertains to the pure gold content of the mounting of your ring, Carat (with a C) refers to the size of your diamond and is the measure of its weight.  A carat is divided in 100 “points.”

CARAT         1/5     ¼       1/3     1/2     3/4    1ct      2cts

POINTS        20      25       33       50      75      100    200

But size and weight alone do not determine the value of a diamond.  For instance, it is very possible for a smaller diamond to be worth more than a larger one.  The other three C’s must also be considered in arriving at the cost of a diamond.  Prices change by weight groups.

one hour payday loans

“Life” and “Brilliance” are created by light rays bouncing and reflecting on, in and out, the facets of a diamond.

The angles of reflection are all important, as shown below: (Click image to enlarge)

one hour payday loans

Color  Diamonds are found in nature in all colors of the rainbow, and some are very rare.  The magnificent 44-1/2 Carat “Hope” diamond, for instance, is a sapphire blue.

Any Variance from white or colorless not only affects the price, but the beauty of a diamond as well. (click image to enlarge)

one hour payday loans

White diamonds reflect light more effectively, where as a diamond with color will absorb light, affecting the brilliance.  COMPARE THE COLOR CLOSELY.  Some diamonds react to fluorescent light, sometimes enhancing the beauty and color, sometimes harming the appearance.  ASK ABOUT FLUORESCENCE.

Clarity  “Clarity” describes the various internal flaws in a diamond.  These are the “fingerprints” of a diamond and no two are alike.

A flawless diamond, where no internal inclusions can be seen by a trained expert using a 10-power loupe, is extremely rare and very expensive.

The number and the type of flaws, and whether or not they are visible to the unaided eye, are factors in determining the price you pay for your diamond.

Keep in mind that minor flaws, invisible to the unaided eye, do not detract from the beauty of a diamond but do affect the price. 

COMPARATIVE CLARITY GRADING SYSTEMS (click image to enlarge)

one hour payday loans

one hour payday loans

Other important information to remember in selecting your diamond engagement ring or fine jewelry:

• Diamond prices are set by the world demand on these gems.  In most cases,bargain prices result only in lower grades being presented as finer goods.  DON’T BE FOOLED!
•  Do not be fooled by illusions.  Spinelli Jewelers shows diamonds under normal lighting, not color correcting bulbs.  We feel this is the correct way to select your diamond jewelry since this is likely to be the same lighting that you’ll enjoy your jewelry in.
• Workmanship is another concern with selecting your fine jewelry.  Look at your selection carefully.  If the setting job is poor, you’ll be able to tell.  At Spinelli Jewelers, most of our diamonds are set by us.  Others must meet our fine standards, prior to being part of our inventory.
• Diamond prices change with each of the four C’s.  As stated above, no two diamonds are the same.  Be very careful in trying to compare.  When you do compare the diamonds, be sure to compare the jewelers and their capabilities.  In most cases, cheaper is not better.

Thank you for considering Spinelli Jewelers for this or any of your fine jewelry needs!