HOW TO BUY A DIAMONDPrestige Jewelers Sales Meeting Sales Presentation

THE 4 C’S DETERMINE DIAMOND GRADE VALUE

Cut Refers to a diamond’s reflective qualities, new its shape Angles and number of facets determine how diamond reflects light

In well-cut diamonds, light enters from the top, reflects from one side to the other and exits out the top.

In poorly cut diamonds , light enters from the top and “leaks” out the bottom.

Clarity Refers to a diamond’s color (or inclusions)

Internal air bubbles Surface cracks

Diamonds range from flawless (no inclusions) to include 3 (flaws visible to the naked eye)

Color Refers to a diamond’s color

Colorless is most valuable , reflecting the most light Graded on alphabetical scale from “D” (Colorless) to “Z” (traces of yellow or

brown) Fancy color diamonds do not color this rule (i.e., blue, yellow, pink diamonds)

Carat Refers to the unit of weight by which a diamond is measured The greater the carat weight, the more expensive the diamond ( all other

characteristics being equal.

DETERMINING A DIAMOND’S QUALITY

Microscope / Loop A microscope or jeweler’s loop (10x magnifying

glass) will show any inclusions in a diamond. Diamond Tester

Uses light to verify that the diamond is real Does not guarantee quality of stone, just

authenticity Certification

Certifies the quality of a diamond Certificates should come from a reputable

source Certificates could cost up to $200

BUYER BEWARE OF “TREATED “ DIAMONDS

Filled with glass to enhance clarity Treated with heat to enhance color

Used to turn yellow or brown diamonds into a fancy-colored

Color may change over time Painted for color to offset yellow color

Wears off quicklyEasily detectable

CARING FOR DIAMONDS After you purchase a diamond, be sure

to care for it so that it does not get scratched or damaged. Remember, diamonds are brittle and can crack if banged. Diamonds should be stored separately so that they do not scratch other pieces of jewelry and do not get scratched . Finally, when a diamond needs to be cleaned, use a jewelers polishing cloth or bring it to your jeweler.