5 Things to Know Before Buying Diamond Bracelets
Seeing glittering diamonds in a bracelet can be captivating, but some important considerations mustn't overshadow your buying decisions. Quality, setting styles, metal, budget, and lifestyle should be considered before you purchase a stunning diamond bracelet. After all, diamond bracelets are an investment, and it's essential to be informed so you can feel good about your purchase. Let's cover these five considerations so you can start shopping.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Understanding the 4 Cs
The first item on the list is the 4Cs. When you're shopping for any diamond, you'll need to evaluate each stone's 4Cs (cut, color, clarity, and carat). Cut refers to the shape of the diamond and how well the facets are cut as well. The cut determines how the stone interacts with the light entering the stone, so it's responsible for a diamond's sparkle and brilliance. Color is the hue of the stone. Colorless is the most valuable type of color, but some prefer a warmer-colored diamond. It's up to you!
Diamonds have natural inclusions within the stone - some are more noticeable, which means they have a lower clarity grade. In contrast, others have little to no inclusions visible to the naked eye: the fewer inclusions, the higher the clarity grade. Carat refers to the stone's carat weight, meaning how big the stone is. Keep in mind that different cuts carry carat weight differently. The total carat weight for bracelets will be the total amount of diamonds in the entire bracelet. Each diamond is unique and special, so look closely at each stone in the bracelet you're considering. You want the quality to be consistent throughout so that the eye doesn't notice apparent differences between stones.
Setting Styles
A diamond bracelet's setting significantly affects its overall aesthetics and durability. Knowing the difference between setting styles helps you browse bracelet styles. Common setting styles include prong, bezel, channel, and pavé. Prong means that the diamond is set individually, and prongs hold each diamond in place. For diamonds in bezel settings, each diamond is encircled with a strip of metal. A channel set means a row of diamonds nestled together and held in place by strips of metal on either side of the row of stones. Pavé typically has smaller or micro diamonds that are set individually within the metal. Their look varies - some bracelets are thicker and covered in diamonds, while other pavé bracelet settings are more delicate. The setting style impacts the comfort of each bracelet, so try them on to ensure they are comfortable and secure on your wrist.
Metal Options
Another consideration that might not be top of mind is the metal. This impacts the bracelet's overall look as well as the cost. Common metal choices include platinum or white, yellow, or rose gold. Gold is usually more affordable than platinum, but your overall choice depends on your style preferences and budget. Platinum is a great hypoallergenic option if you have skin sensitivities. Both options are strong and durable for your diamond bracelet.
Budget Considerations
We've touched on it here and there, but it's time to address it - your budget will impact your diamond bracelet selection. Before you even look at a bracelet, take a realistic look at your finances and decide how much you want to spend. Diamond bracelets come in all shapes and sizes - and price tags. Knowing how much you'd like to spend can narrow your search and help streamline your shopping. Consider your preferences for the 4Cs as you set your budget as well. Keep in mind that the carat weight, cut, and overall quality of the diamonds in the bracelet will impact the cost. Balancing your budget with your quality preferences can ensure you're delighted with your bracelet but didn't overspend.
Style and Lifestyle Compatibility
An important consideration is to look at your lifestyle and personal style. Once you start browsing for diamond bracelets, you'll realize your many options - from a classic tennis bracelet to a modern bangle to an intricate station bracelet. You want it to complement your wardrobe, reflect your taste and personal style, and be something that you'll get to wear often. Think about what types of jewelry you wear most and your daily activities. Consider what type of bracelet would best suit your lifestyle and what you spend your time doing. A durable channel-set tennis bracelet might be preferable for everyday wear, while a statement-making bracelet might be better for special occasions. You want a piece you'll adore and get plenty of wrist time.
Conclusion
Diamond bracelets look amazing on men's and women's wrists! They're the perfect piece that can be dressed up or down - they're gorgeous. Before you purchase a diamond bracelet, you must focus on a few considerations before you commit to buying one.
First, familiarize yourself with the 4Cs so that you know the diamonds' color, cut, clarity, and carat weight. You'll see different styles and diamond settings (bezel, channel, prong, or pavé) for bracelets that impact the overall look. Consider how much you want to spend on your bracelet before shopping. This will help narrow your options and ensure you get a bracelet you love that's within your budget.
Finally, consider your lifestyle and what type of bracelet you want. You may want a bracelet that you can wear from day to night, like a tennis bracelet, or you want a statement piece that you can wear to special events. Hopefully, this info provided some helpful advice so you can get to the fun part - jewelry shopping!
