Finding Diamond Of Your Dreams
If diamonds are part of your Valentine's Day plans, pay attention to the expert advice Donald Palmieri gave The Saturday Early Show's Co-Anchor Thalia Assuras about making a purchase.
President of the Gemological Appraisal Association, Palmieri appraises gems for moderna.com, an online jewelry company.
"You need to do some homework," Palmieri says. Talk to friends and relatives who have recently purchased diamonds, go to the library or use the wealth of resources available on the Internet.
There are two key things to look for in buying a diamond, according to the gemologist.
| Read Thalia Assuras' report on Tiffany & Company's gems. |
First, he says, for any diamond you want to buy, obtain the Geological Institute of America's Diamond Grading Report. Palmieri calls it the "blueprint of the diamond" because it contains detailed information about the gem's quality.
Secondly, he says, pay attention to the 4Cs: clarity, color, carat weight and cut. Much of this information is in the GIA report, according to Palmieri.
- Carat: This describes the size. There are 100 points in each carat, and a 1 carat diamond is worth more than four small diamonds each weighing .25 carats.
- Clarity: The range for clarity is from "flawless" to "imperfect." F or IF refer to the best, followed by V VS (for very very slight inclusions), VS, SI and I. Diamonds rated I have flaws visible to the naked eye and should be avoided.
- Color: The range for color is from D to Z, with D representing the best. Don't buy a diamond with anything less than an L rating.
- Cut: This describes the shape of the diamond. A round diamond is perfectly symmetrical and reflects the light 360 degrees all the way around.
Palmiera recommends checking out any company or store, including ones on the Internet, with the Jeweler's Vigilance Committee. Provide the name of the company or store to find out if any complaints have been lodged against it.
 |