How to Buy a Diamond

1. How to Buy a Diamond Prestige Jewelers Sales Meeting Sales Presentation Katy Runt Period 8 04/23/10 2p1-diamonds

2. The 4 C’s • Cut • Refers to a diamond’s reflective qualities, not its shape • Angles and number of facets determine how diamond reflects light • In well-cut diamonds, light enters the top, reflects from one side to the other, and exits out the top. • In poorly cut diamonds, light enters from the top and “leaks” out the bottom. • Clarity • Refers to a diamond’s flaws (or inclusions) • Internal air bubbles • Surface cracks • Diamonds range from Flawless (no inclusions) to Included 3 (flaws visible to the naked eye) • Color • Refers to a diamond’s color • Colorless is the most valuable, reflecting the most light • Graded on alphabetical scale from “D” (colorless) to “Z” (traces of yellow or brown) • Fancy color diamonds do not follow this rule (i.e., blue, yellow, pink diamonds) • Carat • Refers to the unit of weight by which a diamond is measured • The greater the carat weight, the more expensive the diamond (all other characteristics being equal)

3. Determining a Diamond’s Quality • Microscope/Loop • A microscope or jeweler’s loop (10x magnifying glass) will show any inclusions in a diamond • Diamond Tester • Uses light to verify that the diamond is real • Does not guarantee quality of stone, just authenticity • Certification • Certifies the quality of a diamond • Certificates should come from a reputable source • Certificates could cost up to $200

4. Buyer Beware of “Treated” Diamonds • Filled with glass to enhance clarity • Treated with heat to enhance color • Used to turn yellow or brown diamonds into fancy-colored • Color may change over time • Painted for color to offset yellow color • Wears off quickly • Easily detectable

5. Caring for Diamonds • Care for diamonds so it does not scratch or damage • They are very brittle and can crack • Store separate from other jewelry • Clean diamonds • Use a jeweler’s polishing cloth or take it to your jeweler