When you buy a stock, you don’t choose one because you like the look of its logo. Buying a diamond can be an emotional journey, but it is also an investment in your future, so don’t take it lightly. Educate yourself before you make a purchase.

Do your research and check each company out that you’re interested in to see who has a solid reputation might help you save money. When buying a diamond, you should look at many stones to see how well the cut and clarity stands up to inspection.

If you start educating yourself ahead of time, you’ll know the right questions to ask about the diamond’s cut. The most common types of cut you’ll find in a diamond are brilliant cuts, step cuts, antique cuts, and patent cuts.

Round diamonds usually have the brilliant cut which uses triangles and kite shapes in the cutting of the diamond itself. The benefit of this cut is that it allows the light to refract off each facet of cut on the diamond and enables it to bounce from one corner to another – giving the diamond its brilliant sparkle.

A step cut is often seen in emerald-shaped diamonds. In this method the diamond is cut into four-sided facets, giving the step look. The facets in the step cut are created in a sloping fashion to catch the light for a luminous quality.

Another cut, the antique cut, is fashioned in many different ways. No matter how it’s done, the antique cut carves intricate designs into the stone to give an old world feel to round, oval, and odd shaped ones – like those made to look like an opening rose bud.

Yet another option is the patented cut. Diamonds cut in this style have several sharp cornered facets set into the stone. This allows the light to be absorbed and reflected so the diamond has a brilliant illumination. Keep in mind that regardless of shape, a poorly cut diamonds will appear lifeless.