If you're looking for a beautiful, shimmering diamond ring for engagement or just to say "I Love You," you'll need to know what to look for before shopping around. Diamond rings are available at most any jeweler, but finding the very best diamond at a price you can afford can be baffling. The love of your life will adore her lovely diamond engagement ring - and knowing you took some time and effort to find the very best will make the wedding proposal moment even more special!

Diamond Facts

There are a few facts you should know about diamonds before looking around at a retail store or at an online diamond store. First, learn the "Four Cs" of diamonds. These are cut, clarity, color, and carat weight. Jewelers use these criteria to grade diamonds, whether grading ring diamonds or certified loose diamonds. You should also study up on another "C" before shopping around - diamond certificates.

A diamond's cut determines its brilliance or reflectivity. The cut might be labeled one of the following: ideal, premium, very good, good, and fair or poor. The cut affects the diamond's anatomy, including its diameter, crown, table, pavilion, depth, culet, and girdle. After studying cuts, you'll have an understanding of the type of diamond you want and how to shop around for the perfect fit for your bride-to-be or spouse.

The clarity of a diamond has to do with the inner flaws (or inclusions) of a diamond. Diamonds with fewer flaws create more brilliance, and are more costly. There's also color, with colorless being the most desired and most expensive.

The carat weight of a diamond is its measuring unit, with larger diamonds being more costly. A carat equals 200 milligrams or 0.2 grams. When shopping for a larger diamond, you might opt for a slightly lower quality in terms of clarity and color to save money. It depends on what your recipient prefers, the size of her hand and fingers, and your own budget for a diamond ring. The diamond setting will have to be matched with your diamond's weight as well, so this can also affect the price of a diamond engagement ring.

A diamond's certificate is simply its grading report, or a complete evaluation of your diamond given by a professional gemologist. The certificate may be issued by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) or the American Gem Society (AGS). The certificate lists the exact weight of the diamond along with its value, cut details, and other characteristics. Make sure your diamond comes with a certificate so your recipient can keep track of her diamond's value over the years and for insurance purposes.

Ring Settings for a Diamond Engagement Ring

The diamond combined with its ring setting is what personalizes a diamond ring to fit the recipient's wants and personality. Choose a ring setting based on the type of jewelry she loves. Does she prefer yellow or white gold, silver, rose gold, platinum, or two-toned gold?

What about the karat of the gold? There are 10K, 14K, 18K, 22K, and 24K selections to fit her preferences and your budget. Choose 14K or 18K to ensure durability and less maintenance. Rings made of 24K gold are not recommended for everyday jewelry, particularly diamond engagement rings, because 24K is the purest, but also the softest, form of gold. It can become scratched more easily and will likely require more maintenance over the years.

Online Shopping for Diamond Rings

When shopping online for a diamond ring, look for a retailer with employed gemologists that can help you find the appropriate diamond and ring setting for your needs. This ensures getting a good quality diamond ring at a great price, without falling prey to the poor judgment of an anxious, less knowledgeable salesperson. Look for a website that offers certificates with your purchase, shipping protection, and reliable customer guarantees.

You might also find a wedding ring to go with your diamond engagement ring to save money in the future. Some online diamond jewelers offer other products such as diamond stud earrings, certified loose diamonds, bracelets, diamond pendants, necklaces, and brooches. You can check out their gifts for other occasions such as Christmas, birthdays, anniversaries, etc. and possibly save money on multiple purchases.

Buying a diamond ring is a big step. Take your time and educate yourself about diamonds before making a decision. Your girlfriend or wife will appreciate her new ring and your thoughtfulness!