According to jewelers, there are four “Cs” to remember about purchasing rings: carat, clarity, cut and color.
The overall weight of the diamond is referred to as carat. The average size of a diamond in an engagement ring is between .33 and .75 carats. It's important to remember that the price for the ring will increase dramatically as this size is increased. For example, a half carat diamond can be much cheaper than a .6 carat stone, despite the fact that the actual difference between the two is barely noticeable.
Clarity is also a feature that comes with major price differences. The less flaws a particular stone has, the more expensive is becomes. Very few diamonds are without flaws, so even the most costly of stones generally has some sort of defect. This can be adjusted by professionals very easily by simply creating a proper setting which hides a flaw. Sometimes seeking out a stone with slight defects can be a major cost-saving measure.
Prices also vary greatly depending on the intricacies of the cut in the diamond. Since the jewel is a crystalline composite, it is easier to cut the stone into either the emerald or princess cuts which make use of the natural formations. When a diamond is cut into a more elaborate shape, such as a heart or oval, it adds to the overall cost. Additionally, certain cuts are actually trademarked by jewelers, making the cost for these diamonds even more expensive.
Finally, the color of the gem is one of the most prevalent of features that help to raise the average cost of a diamond engagement ring. Completely clear stones are nearly impossible to acquire, so science has found ways to adjust the color in the laboratory. People interested in saving some money when purchasing a ring may consider using platinum as a metal for the band as this offsets the slight color shades in a natural diamond. Gems are also available in a variety of shades such as blue or pink, but these add even higher costs to the overall piece.
