Before you go to select your loose diamonds or stones it helps if you already have a good idea what you want in terms of the design of your ring. You should for example be thinking about the setting for your loose diamonds as this can help you to work out the quality that you should go for. For example, a ‘bezel’ or a setting called a ‘flush’ are good for drawing attention away from any small flaws in the loose diamonds, that you may be able to see if you choose an open setting. .
Cut is the only loose diamonds characteristic directly influenced by man – the other three are dictated by nature. A good round brilliant cut in loose diamonds releases the life, fire and sparkle of loose diamonds through the arrangement and proportions of its fifty seven to fifty eight facets (tiny planes that create angles to reflect light). When loose diamonds are cut, the light will reflect from one facet to another and disperse through the top of the stone, resulting in a display of brilliance and fire. Loose diamonds that are cut to deep or shallow lose light that spills through the side or bottom. The shape of loose diamonds is a matter of personal taste, with the round brilliant ones being the most popular of the shapes. Other shapes of loose diamonds include the emerald cut, pear shape, marquise, princess cut, oval and heart shape.
In most cases it is common for a jeweller to use loose diamonds that you have brought to them, which you may have bought elsewhere or perhaps have been given to you as a gift or are a family heirloom. This service with loose diamonds, is not simply for smaller or more independent jewellers which are often renowned for more personal service – it can also apply to chain stores or those that you find in large department stores. Your personal requirements for the loose diamonds should be accommodated by either type of jeweller, whether it is a simple or a much more elaborate setting that you have in mind for your ring design.
The carat refers to the weight and therefore the size of the loose diamonds. One carat is divided into 100 points. Therefore, loose diamonds weighing 50 points is half a carat. Size is the most obvious factor in determining the value of loose diamonds. But two loose diamonds of equal size can have very different values, depending on their cut, clarity and colour. All of these factors contribute to and also will directly affect the cost and value of the stone.
It may seem like trying to research and find the best loose diamonds is something that requires a great deal of effort, in comparison to buying a ready made ring. This may be the case especially if you are unfamiliar with the loose diamond characteristics and it may not seem worth it. However, it may well be the best option for you as by choosing your own loose diamonds for a design, you can then select the best quality stones, without the distraction or cover ups of an elaborate setting. You ring using loose diamonds will also then be completely bespoke and should totally suit your taste and budget.
