This is why it is important to shop for a quality item, and hopefully, the tips below will help you with just that.  
  • Be reasonably sure of what shape, clarity and color you can expect to get within your budget, such as a 1 carat diamond eternity ring and don’t go past that.
  • Do not buy a diamond that is not certified by AGS or GIA.
  • The cut grade of the diamond should be either Excellent or Very Good.
  • If you buy a shape other than round brilliant, have a jeweler comment on the grade of cut, because this information will generally not be available with the certificate.
  • The clarity of the stone should be SI1 or above.
  • If the diamond is fluorescent, make sure that this is blue.
  • If you are getting something in the DEF color range and the fluorescence is
  • medium or strong, make sure that the luster grade is L1.
  • When purchasing, ensure that the seller can tell you the difference between milkiness, fluorescence, and luster. Be suspicious if they don’t know how these terms differ.