How to choose a diamond

Start with the whole budget

Decide what the money needs to cover before choosing a carat weight. A loose diamond, its setting, metal, manufacture and delivery are separate parts of the finished result. Keep a realistic allocation for each.

Describe the outcome you want: a discreet everyday ring, a larger visual presence or a particular shape. A catalogue filter is useful only after these priorities are clear.

Choose the outline and visible size

Compare shapes on a hand and then compare their actual length and width in millimetres. Two diamonds of equal weight need not have equal face-up dimensions. For elongated shapes, check the length-to-width ratio and the way it works with the setting.

Balance appearance and grades

Inspect light performance and visible inclusions rather than buying solely by the highest colour or clarity label. Whether an inclusion is noticeable depends on its position, the cut, the size of the stone and viewing conditions. Compare candidates under similar lighting.

Confirm the individual stone

Ask for its images or video, report number, exact measurements and a written price. Confirm the laboratory-grown origin, any reported treatment, delivery and deposit terms. Reference photographs and calculated dimensions are not substitutes for the offered stone's own details.