Step 1 of 5: Let’s start with shape
Diamonds come in a variety of shapes, ranging from traditional rounds and ovals to square princess shapes, rectangular emerald shapes, cushions, and more. Which shape is right for you? It’s purely a question of style and personal preference. Click on one or more styles that interest you and we’ll be glad to show you the differences in person.
Shape refers to the geometry of the diamond such as circle, square, oval, etc. Every shape is uniquely beautiful, and choosing the right shape is simply a question of style. If you need help finding the right shape, our diamond experts will guide you towards a diamond that fits her style perfectly.
Step 2 of 5: What is the right diamond size?
A diamond’s size is most commonly measured by weight in units called carats. This means that carat weight doesn’t measure the physical dimensions of the stone, so a pair of one carat stones can have very different measurements and look noticeably different depending on the cut.
Yes, size matters, but bigger is not always better. Picking the right diamond size depends on a number of factors such as your budget, the trade-off between the other C’s (color, clarity and cut) and the ring style you choose. That’s why you should compare diamonds side by side to judge the visual differences for yourself. Our diamond experts will help you find the right balance between size, budget and beauty.
Step 3 of 5: What color should I choose?
Your diamond’s color was determined when it was formed millions of years ago. Diamonds with less color are rarer and therefore more valuable, but diamonds with faint color can be equally as beautiful as colorless diamonds when partnered with the right ring setting.
The difference between each color grade is very slight to the naked eye. A well-cut diamond can appear to have a higher color grade than it actually does, and the type of metal used in your ring's setting will also affect your diamond's true color.
Best
DEF
Excellent
GH
Very Good
IJ
I'm not sure
Any
Step 4 of 5: What clarity should I choose?
Clarity represents the amount of inherent characteristics, which are called inclusions, that appear in your diamond. Increased clarity translates to increased rarity, and therefore higher value. A flawless diamond is extremely rare, but your diamond does not have to be flawless to still be stunning. In fact, diamonds with slight inclusions can be just as beautiful as a flawless diamond to the naked eye.
When choosing clarity, we recommend starting by examining and comparing diamonds with your naked eye. Most inclusions are not visible unless seen under the magnification of a loupe or microscope. High clarity diamonds hold their value very well, but lower clarity diamonds can be just as beautiful if set correctly in a ring. It’s a question of what you value and what looks right to you.
Best
FL-VVS
Flawless to Very,
Excellent
VS
Very Good
SI
Slight Visible
I'm not sure
Any
Step 5 of 5: Review your diamond selection and make an appointment
Now that you have decided what kind of diamond you are looking for, we invite you to make an appointment to see it in person. The 4Cs give you a basic understanding of diamonds, but they are oversimplified. At Long’s, we believe there is only one way to be certain about your diamond choice: to get an education that includes learning how to trust your eyes. Remember, she won’t be wearing a diamond certificate on her finger, she’ll be wearing a beautiful diamond ring.
When choosing a diamond ring, the ring setting is just as important as the diamond itself. After you make your appointment to view diamonds, we invite you to browse our engagement ring styles from solitaires to three-stones, pave and more! Feel free to add a few ring styles to your selection so we can put them aside for your appointment.
