Diamond wholesalers are a great place to get one at a lower cost than from a retailer. But to make a purchase of a loose diamond, you should know about diamonds and how they are graded so you get what you pay for.

There is a general saying when judging a diamond. That is to know the 4 C’s. This is carat weight, cut, color and clarity. The weight is the easy part. This has to be measured and can be done so easily. Knowing the different cuts is also important. The difference between a princess cut, or a cushion is vastly different from each other but so are the marquise cuts. Know the difference between them before you engage with a diamond wholesaler. The uniformed can be taken advantage of easily.

A good warning sign when thinking about making a loose diamond purchase is if the wholesaler tells you that getting the diamond appraised is easy and that is how you can get a certificate for it. If you purchase a diamond without a certificate from either the GIA or AGS in America then you are taking a chance. The certificate is the way all diamonds are graded and priced, unless you are an expert. Not many people are unless they are in the diamond business.

Knowing the weight, color and cut are easy to judge, but the clarity is where the value can really come into play. This is what is referred to as the inclusions or impurities that each natural diamond possesses. If you can see dirt particles with the naked eye, the value of the diamond should not be very high. If the diamond wholesaler tells you different, then do not trust their advice and move on to another dealer.

Let’s face facts — buying a diamond engagement ring is one of the most important purchases that you will ever make. It will set the tone for your marriage, and may be more meaningful to you than the purchase of your first home.

Not only that, but buying an engagement ring is a big investment. Simply put, you want the best value for your money and you need to deal with someone that you can trust.