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4. Deciding Gemstone Shape(s)

The price of your lab created diamond engagement ring will depend on the carat size, cut, color, and clarity of the gem you are considering. The first decision should be the shape as this will establish the style and other elements of your engagement ring. You will also find that some ring styles only work with specific gemstone shapes. Once you establish the shape of your gemstone, you can determine the specifics. Common shapes for lab diamond rings include round, oval, princess and cushions. Choose a brilliant cut diamond for the maximum amount of sparkle and shine. For something with elegant sophistication, something like an emerald cut will have gorgeous appeal.

5. The 4 C’s

The carat size, cut, color, and clarity of your ring will establish the visual presence of your diamond engagement ring. Like your love, your lab created diamond engagement ring is a balance of elements. While educating yourself, remember that the IGI certificate is your guide to all the specifications of the diamond. The certificate will include all the grades as they relate to the 4C's. For larger diamond sizes, the certificate also includes a plot of the inclusions that are visible on the diamond. Lastly, you can also see the diamond graders notes. Ensure that you read these notes to avoid diamonds that are hazy, milky or don't have adequate sparkle. Allow yourself the time you need to consider the impact of the individual C’s as those are the most important in determining the look and sparkle of the diamond.

Carat

The carat, or size, of your stone, will have a large bearing on the cost of your lab created diamond engagement ring. Remember, a clear, well-cut gem with warm color may make up for some of the lost impact when you choose to reduce the diamond carat size.

Cut

One might mix the cut and shape of a diamond with each other. However, the cut of a diamond refers to its proportions. Gemologists grade a diamond’s angles and symmetry, which amount to its cut, from “Poor” to “Ideal” and sometimes, to “Excellent.”

Color

On a grading color scale from D to Z, what one should aim for is a more color-free diamond. “D” shows that the white diamond has no color, whereas “Z” indicates that the gem has a distinct yellow hue. Depending on the style you get, the color of your center diamond can matter more or less. For example, a halo style diamond ring would prompt a “D” colorless diamond because there are surrounding accent diamonds exaggerating the center stone.

Clarity

Lastly, clarity, which is graded from “I” included, to “FL” flawless. The clarity of a diamond takes into consideration its flaws. Imperfections in stones can be external and internal. Many of which can only be seen with magnification. It is always best to leave clarity grading with expert gemologists. Clarity is graded from (I) included – indicating you can see the flaw, up to (FL) flawless.

6. Beyond the 4 C’s: Finish, Fluorescence, and Proportions

Finish: Symmetry

The symmetry of a diamond is associated with its facets. When a diamond is cut, the products are flat surfaces called facets, which enhance the performance of light. Diamonds that have more uniform facet sizes and shapes, will be more symmetrical. If one facet is out of place, a diamond would not sparkle as brilliantly because cut grade and light refraction will be lower.

Finish: Polish

Light performance is dependent on the smoothness of facet surfaces. What one should avoid are striated polish lines or facet surfaces with grooves. Defects as such will result in less scintillation and radiant sparkle from a diamond stone.

Fluorescence

A diamond fluorescence scale ranges from “None” to “Strong.” Depending on its finish (symmetry and polish), the diamond will react to ultraviolet light by producing a soft hue. Keep in mind, fluorescence is neither good nor bad. Moreover, it does not affect a diamond’s authenticity or sparkle. If you have any questions feel free to contact us.

Proportions: Table and Depth

An certification report might also provide a detailed overview of diamond proportions, including:

Table

How light enters and moves through a diamond is called refraction. The part of a diamond that experiences the most refraction is the diamond table, which is the largest facet of a diamond. This is worth noting because a bigger diamond table makes a diamond look larger. When a diamond table is bigger in size, the more light can enter, and then reflect and escape the diamond.

Depth

Depth is measured from the top at the diamond table, to the bottom point of the diamond called the culet. This height measurement is crucial when it comes to overall visual performance. Experts try to avoid diamonds with more depth or a bigger distance from table to culet. Conversely, diamonds with less depth, or shorter distance from table to culet, will also negatively impact visual performance. Depending on a diamond cut, one can truly know the ideal depth for a diamond. We recommend talking to a reputable jeweler or expert gemologist.

7. Selecting the Right Jeweler

Trying to find the best place to buy lab grown diamonds? Well, you’re in luck, as these little beauties are increasingly used by jewelry makers across the globe. With skill and care, high quality lab grown diamonds can be transformed into beautiful items of jewelry, ready to be snapped up by eager consumers. Do the research you need to make yourself comfortable working with your jeweler, whether online or offline. Ensure that the jeweler is reputable by verifying reviews, contacting them with questions, and seeing they offer a reasonable return and warranty policy.

To veer on the safe side, see if your jeweler provides certification for lab diamonds. Make sure the certification comes from a reputable lab like the International Gemological Institute. An example of a diamond certification we include for all With Clarity lab diamonds is below. Other aspects like appraisals, free engraving, and cleaning services are also nice to have.

8. Ordering the Ring

Once you’re comfortable with your choice, you may wish to get a second opinion. As this is a major life purchase, you may want to include your significant other in some, or all, of the decisions regarding the purchase of your lab made diamond ring. However, if you are going for a grand romantic surprise, you may wish to get the opinion of a close friend or family member, or even a gemologist. In general, try to find our her ring size using our handy size chart or by using a ring sizer with a current piece of jewelry that she has. Be sure to take the size from a ring that she wears on her ring finger to ensure the right fit. Good luck!

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