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Diamonds

A diamond is forever, and of all gemstones, these bits of fire and ice come the closest to fulfilling that promise. In chemical composition, diamonds are pure carbon, subjected to heat and pressure until the molecules are compressed to the familiar crystalline structure.

Diamonds are arguably the most well-known of all gemstones in today's world. While it's generally thought that diamonds are the most expensive stones on the market, there are rarer stones that command a higher price per carat.

In addition to being the birthstone for those born in April, diamonds are the traditional gemstone for the 10^th, 60^th and 75^th anniversaries.

Learn more about the April birthstone

Diamond buying guide

Most people know the four C's of diamond buying - color, clarity, carat weight and cut. Many focus on size as the determining factor of price and quality, but there's far more to valuing a diamond than how big it is.

Color

Ice. Pure, colorless diamonds generally are scored the highest in color. Yellow or blue casts to the stone will lower its value, generally, but there are exceptions. Fancies are naturally colored diamonds that can fetch high prices, depending on the purity and saturation of the color. As with most other gems, yellow/brown diamonds are the least valuable of the fancies though champagne diamonds are particularly striking and lovely. If you're a fan of the unique, you might find that a high quality champagne diamond makes a stunning ring at an affordable price.

Clarity

Unlike other gems, diamonds are examined for clarity upside down at 10x magnifications. Even the tiniest flaw or inclusion will reduce the grading (and the price) of a diamond - which means that you can often get an excellent price on a stone that looks perfect to the naked eye if you shop carefully.

Carat weight

Looking for a bargain price on a diamond? Some experts recommend that you look for 'off' size diamonds. Prices per carat tend to jump at round weights - for example a .5 carat diamond costs more per carat than a .45 carat diamond.

Cut

It's believed that there are optimal proportions in the shape of a diamond, and diamonds are graded by cut from Ideal to Poor. The cut is what determines the brilliance of a particular stone. Generally, even the difference between an ideal cut and a poor cut is difficult for untrained eyes to discern.

Diamond care

While diamonds may be the hardest substance on Earth, they still require special care to keep them looking their best as well as to keep them safe.

Everyday caution

Diamonds are vulnerable to breaking if they are hit along one of their cleavage lines, though one of the functions of a proper setting it to prevent the diamond from being struck from a direction that will cleave it. Even so, you should exercise some common sense. Remove diamond jewelry before engaging in exercise or physical work that might expose your diamond to being struck or banging against things.

Because chemicals can damage your jewelry, put your rings, earrings and necklaces on AFTER applying hair spray, perfume and makeup. Avoid chlorine bleach, which can pit and damage gems.

Wear gloves when doing dishes - or remove your rings entirely. Diamonds have a particular affinity for grease and oil and will literally attract the grease in dishwater.

Storing diamonds

When not work, your diamond jewelry should be stored in a soft pouch in a jewelry box. Keep in mind that diamonds can scratch and damage other gems and metals - wrapping your diamonds in soft cloth is as much for the protection of other jewelry in your jewelry box as it is to protect the diamond from damage.

Cleaning diamonds

Dirt, dust and body oils that collect behind the diamond can dull its sparkle. Regular cleaning to remove surface oils and dust will help keep your diamond looking its best. You can use most commercial jewelry cleaners with diamond jewelry, but it's not necessary. A soak in warm water with a little mild dishwashing soap will help loosen dirt and grease so that it can be cleaned away with a soft toothbrush.

At least once a year, have your diamond jewelry examined to be sure that settings and prongs aren't loosening. Many jewelers will also clean your diamonds when you bring them in for an examination.