Carat Top
Did you know that 40 percent of engagements take place between Thanksgiving and Valentine's Day? It's true, according to a survey from The Knot. So, since that time frame is, well, now, I thought I'd share these helpful diamond-buying tips from the American Society of Appraisers for any of you who are hoping for a proposal:
- It may not be as wallet-friendly, but value-conscientious shoppers may want to know that diamonds larger than one carat in size will hold their value best.
- Diamonds that have the quality "F" in color and "VS1" and "VS2" in clarity have been holding their values best over time, even though they aren't the most expensive grades.
- Cut is the most important of all the "C's." Look for a proportion and shape that maximize the diamond's sparkle for best value retention-that information that is provided on major lab reports called "certs".
- Round brilliant-cut diamonds will hold their value better than other shapes.
- Because diamonds are the hardest of all stones, they will be less likely to be damaged, which will help retain their value.
- For the best value for your money, put the most money into the diamond itself and choose a simple setting.
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I have one questions about this posting. All but the last one talk about "holding value over time". The last one is best value for the money. It's an engagement ring, do you really worry about how much you might be able to sell or pawn it for down the road. Holding value only comes into play if you are getting rid of it. Seems like a strange point to me.
Hi, Curt! Thanks for your comment. The reason people consider "holding value" when they buy an engagement ring is often because they hope to "trade up" to a bigger, better diamond down the line. Personally, I can't imagine doing that given sentimental value (and my own hopeless romanticism), but it's very common. I hope that helps to clarify! --Josey