The Ultimate Guide to Selecting a Diamond

by Eliza DeRosa December 13, 2024

Buying a diamond is more than a purchase; it’s a deeply personal and meaningful decision. Whether it marks a proposal or celebrates an anniversary, the diamond you choose becomes a symbol of your story. But with endless options available, the process can feel overwhelming.

This guide is here to walk you through everything you need to know, from understanding the timeless "4 Cs" to exploring ethical options and alternative gemstones. Whether you’re shopping for the perfect engagement ring or simply curious about diamond selection, you’re in the right place.

The Keys to Diamond Selection

The foundation of choosing the perfect diamond lies in understanding the "4 Cs," which determine the beauty, quality, and value of a stone.

1. Cut

The cut is the most critical aspect of a diamond's beauty. A well-cut diamond interacts with light in a way that creates brilliance and sparkle.

Tip: Prioritize cut above all else—an excellent cut can elevate even a modestly sized diamond to breathtaking levels.

2. Color

Diamonds are graded on a color scale from D (completely colorless) to Z (light yellow or brown). Colorless diamonds are rare and prized, but near-colorless stones (grades G-J) are a budget-friendly option with equally stunning visual appeal.

Tip: If your setting is yellow gold, slightly lower color grades (like H or J) can still shine beautifully, thanks to the warm tones of the metal.

3. Clarity

Clarity reflects a diamond's internal and external imperfections, known as inclusions and blemishes. Most inclusions are invisible to the naked eye, especially in stones graded VS2 or better.

Tip: If you’re looking for a clean appearance without paying a premium, clarity grades such as VS2 or SI1 offer great value.

4. Carat

Carat refers to the weight of the diamond rather than its size. While larger diamonds can make an impression, consider that cut and proportion impact how big a diamond appears.

Tip: A 0.9-carat diamond can look nearly identical to a full-carat stone but comes at a significantly lower price.

Thinking Ethically and Sustainably

Diamonds have long been tied to concerns over conflict and environmental impact. Fortunately, mindful shoppers have more options than ever before to balance beauty and ethics.

Consider Repurposed Diamonds

Repurposed diamonds are gems taken from vintage or pre-owned jewelry, expertly inspected, and polished to restore their brilliance.

Our team at Nine Roses believes repurposed diamonds are the most ethical stones you can get—yes, even more ethical than lab-grown diamonds, which require a ton of energy to create. On the occasion we cannot find a recycled option that meets our clients’ needs, we source directly from an importer whose stones strictly adhere to the Kimberley Process.

We prefer these stones for a number of reasons. Because they were mined long ago, a second life makes them both a carbon neutral and conflict-free option.

Unique Alternatives

If traditional white diamonds aren’t for you, explore options like rustic diamonds or sapphires. Rustic diamonds, with their natural inclusions and unique character, are perfect for those who value an organic look. Meanwhile, sapphires offer stunning hues and exceptional durability, making them a vibrant yet practical choice for everyday wear.

Finding the Right Diamond Together

Buying a diamond is not just about numbers and grades—it’s about finding something that reflects your story as a couple. Here’s how to ensure the experience is as meaningful as the ring itself.

Start with a Budget

Diamonds come in a wide price range, so it’s essential to start with a clear budget. Decide which factors—like cut or carat—matter most to you and evaluate your budget or financing options accordingly.

Nine Roses is proud to have partnered with Affirm to offer flexible financing plans over 6, 12, or 18 months. This lets you get the ring of your dreams right away while keeping your financial peace intact.

Define Your Partner’s Style

Whether your partner loves classic elegance or modern, unconventional designs, discussing their preferences (or secretly studying their Pinterest boards) can help narrow down your options.

Consider Custom

If you’re looking for something truly unique, consider going custom. Creating a bespoke piece of jewelry is a fresh, exciting, and involved process. Nine Roses crafts each and every bespoke piece with the notion that it will one day become an heirloom—one that will be passed down from generation to generation.

Designing bespoke wedding jewelry and other sentimental pieces is our greatest honor as jewelers, as these small treasures are tangible representations of love. Because of the care and attention we put into every design, it is not a rushed or fast-paced process. It is a conversation, a give-and-take of ideas and knowledge.

Trust a Knowledgeable Jeweler

A skilled jeweler offers more than just a selection of diamonds—they guide you through the process, ensuring you feel confident about your choices. Look for someone who listens, prioritizes transparency, and sources sustainable and ethical materials.

Complementing Your Diamond with a Thoughtful Proposal

Your diamond reflects a commitment, but it’s the heartfelt details of your proposal that make it unforgettable. Choose a location tied to meaningful memories, and—above all—let the moment reflect who you, as a couple, truly are.

For additional proposal inspiration, visit our guide to Richmond's Most Romantic Proposal Spots featuring some of our favorite romantic destinations around the city.

A Final Note on Diamonds

Choosing a diamond is about more than technical details—it’s about honoring a love that endures. Whether you select a timeless white diamond or venture into elegant alternatives like sapphires or rustic diamonds, the most important thing is finding a piece that resonates with you.

Ready to explore stunning, ethically sourced diamonds or custom design options? Set up an appointment to visit the studio and get the process started.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Why are cut and brilliance so important?

The cut amplifies how light reflects within a diamond, creating the sparkle that makes it so enthralling. A poorly cut diamond, regardless of color or clarity, will appear dull.

2. What’s the difference between rustic diamonds and traditional ones?

Rustic diamonds are cherished for their inclusions and earthy beauty, while traditional diamonds focus on achieving clarity, brilliance, and flawlessness.

3. How do I know my diamond is authentic?

Always request certification from reputable organizations like the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) or the American Gem Society (AGS). These certificates detail the diamond’s quality and specifications.

4. How does Nine Roses source diamonds?

We do our best to only source what we call “up-cycled” diamonds, which are stones that have been removed from discarded jewelry. Upon removal, these stones are inspected, re-cut, re-polished, and certified or re-certified by the GIA.

We prefer these stones for a number of reasons. Because they were mined long ago, a second life makes them both a carbon neutral and conflict-free option.

5. Does Nine Roses offer engagement ring financing?

Yes, we've partnered with Affirm to offer flexible financing plans over 6, 12, or 18 months. This lets you get the ring of your dreams right away while keeping your financial peace intact.

6. Should I consider creating a custom ring?

Creating a bespoke piece of jewelry is a unique, exciting, and involved process. We craft each and every bespoke piece with the notion that it will one day become an heirloom—one that will be passed down from generation to generation.