Regardless of whether you are working with a diamond wholesaler or retail jewelry store, we recommend you keep the following diamond buying guidelines in mind:

1. Set a budget, and stick to it.

2. Shop at locations that have a diamond expert on staff. Purchase your diamond at a reputable location with professionally trained and experienced Diamond Consultants.

3. Have a working knowledge of the 4C's - Cut, Color, Clarity and Carat - and know how to juggle them to fit your budget.

4. Have a working knowledge of other factors that effect the price of a diamond, such as florescence, symmetry, etc.

5. Always look at diamonds on a white background. Black mats won't allow you to judge a diamond's true color.

6. Look at loose diamonds instead of diamonds already in a setting. Look at various diamonds side by side to compare quality, using a jeweler's loupe (magnifying glass).

7. If the size of the diamond is important, consider other shapes. Sometimes, an oval diamond will look bigger than a square or round diamond.

8. Consider a custom mounting reflecting your own personal style. Custom mountings are originals, carved especially with you in mind, and can save you money over pre-made designer mountings.

9. To ensure the value of your diamond, consider buying a certified stone, with an accompanying certificate.

10. In order to maximize your purchasing power, consider buying your diamond from a Diamond Wholesaler, such as Shapiro Diamonds.

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