How often have you heard the words diamonds and the 4 Cs used together? Pretty frequently, is our guess. Most of us like the glitter of diamonds and are dazzled by the array in jewellery stores. We like the look of the diamond jewellery and choose what we can afford, leaving the rest to the jewellers. That is not always a good thing. Our elders knew the jewellers in their time and trusted them implicitly. There was no need to verify how genuine they were or how pure the diamond was regardless the occasion, bridal or engagement jewellery. Times are different now. Fortunately, with more GenZ shopping for diamonds and solitaire jewellery, they have access to too much information and like to do their homework.
This buying guide on choosing a solitaire is our way of helping our shoppers with information on buying solitaires in one place. First, what do we mean when we talk about solitaires?
What is a solitaire?
A solitaire diamond is a single diamond set in a piece of jewellery, usually a ring, like the Tia Twine Solitaire Ring. The solitaire diamond is the most popular type of diamond engagement ring or wedding band. Fortunately, solitaires are not restricted to rings alone. Other diamond jewellery, such as diamond pendants like the V Loop Solitaire Pendant and earrings like the Radiance Solitaire Studs, are just as sought after.
Soliataires know no gender. You will find men wearing solitaire stud earrings, too. The Hawk Solitaire Stud for Men in yellow gold is a perfect choice, and so is the Luke Solitaire Stud for Men in white gold.
The Origin and Elegance of Solitaire Diamonds: A Classic Centerpiece
The word “solitaire” is derived from the Latin word solitarious, meaning “alone.” A solitaire diamond is usually the centrepiece. The most popular setting for a solitaire diamond is in a ring. The ring has a simple band with a single diamond set in the centre. The stone is usually a brilliant round cut, the most popular cut of all, and has 58 facets, or small faces, that reflect light and create sparkle. Solitaires can also be set in an elaborate setting, with accent stones or a halo of diamonds around the centre stone. Such a setting can make the solitaire look larger and more sparkly. Solitaire diamonds can range in size from a quarter of a carat to several carat.
Key Factors That Influence the Price of a Solitaire Diamond
The size of the diamond is usually the determining factor in the price of the ring. The diamond’s cut, clarity, and colour also affect the price. When shopping for a solitaire diamond, it is essential to work with a qualified jeweller who can help you select a well-cut stone with good clarity and colour. It is equally vital to choose a setting that will protect the diamond. Knowing this about solitaires can help. But understanding how to select a solitaire is better.
How to Choose a Solitaire?
When shopping for a diamond solitaire, the first thing to remember is the “4 Cs”: carat weight, cut, colour, and clarity.
Carat weight: This is how a diamond is measured and refers to the size of the diamond. The weight is measured in carats.
Cut: The cut involves how well the diamond has been cut and includes the height, depth, angles, and other factors. It impacts the diamond’s symmetry, brightness, fire, and how sparkly it appears.
Colour: Diamonds are available in many colours, but white (also called clear or colourless) diamonds are the most popular ones.
Clarity: Clarity is all about the blemishes or inclusions there are, and it is judged on a 6-point scale from included to flawless.
Sounds quite simple, doesn’t it? It can be, but it pays to know what to avoid when choosing a solitaire.
Buying solitaires is not for the feeble-minded. They are expensive and can be a significant investment. Therefore, it is essential to know that you have got your money’s worth. The simplest option is to go to a certified jeweller like CaratLane. You can be confident that their solitaires are the real deal and come with an authenticity certification, and are analyzed and rated on GIA standards.
Going to a jeweller who can’t offer the certificate means you are paying for an inferior stone and sometimes even a fake one. Don’t get taken in by size or sparkle alone. Knowing all there is to know about solitaires can help even more. Furthermore, not all solitaires will be beyond your budget as they come in a broad price range. You can still add a solitaire to your collection without worrying about a dent in your savings account.
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