Diamond Jewellery Buying Mistakes to Avoid

Buying diamond jewellery should be a happy occasion. A few common slips can take away some of that happiness. Here are the ones that come up most often, and how to avoid them.

1. Chasing carat alone

People often fix on a carat weight and nothing else. But a larger stone with a poor cut can look dull next to a smaller, brilliant one. Put cut first. See diamond cut grades explained and carat weight vs diamond size.

2. Skipping the certificate on a solitaire

For a significant single stone, a report from a recognised laboratory is essential. Without it you rely on description alone. See diamond certificates.

3. Paying for grades you cannot see

Very high clarity and colour grades carry a high premium, but their advantages are often invisible once the stone is set. See diamond clarity and colour grades.

4. Comparing totals, not specifications

Two prices are only comparable if the stones and metal are comparable. Make a simple table of weight, grades, laboratory, gold weight and making charge. See why two diamonds of the same carat cost different.

5. Forgetting the metal

The gold or platinum, its hallmark and the quality of making matter as much as the stone. Check the hallmark and HUID, as in what a HUID is and how to verify it.

6. Ignoring the setting

A beautiful stone in a weak setting is at risk. Choose a setting suited to your lifestyle. See diamond ring settings.

7. Not asking about origin

Whether a stone is natural or laboratory-grown should be stated in writing. See lab-grown diamond jewellery: questions to ask.

8. Buying under pressure

A "last few pieces" pitch or a "price valid today" claim is not a reason to rush. A good piece will still be a good piece tomorrow, and a reputable seller will give you time.

9. Not reading the return and exchange terms

Know what you can return, exchange or resize, and under what conditions, before you pay. Read the terms and keep them with your invoice.

10. Treating it as an investment

Diamond jewellery is for wearing and keeping. Resale is generally below retail. See can you resell diamond jewellery?.

11. Forgetting about size and fit

A ring that does not fit, or earrings that are too heavy for daily wear, stay in the box. Check size and weight. See how to measure your ring size at home.

12. Not planning for care

Diamond jewellery needs occasional cleaning and checking. See how often to check your jewellery prongs and clasps.

A calmer way to buy

Decide a budget, choose the piece that fits your life, ask for a full breakup and documents, and take your time. If you would like help, book an appointment and bring your questions. You can also begin by browsing our diamond earrings and rings.