Quality and value for money are more important now than they have ever been when it comes to the important things we buy. The thought of purchasing a home, a car, even a vacation that is short of the most exacting standards would be unthinkable in these demanding times. The same holds true for diamonds, the hardest and oldest natural substance known to man, and the most beautiful. But there is more to a diamond than meets the eye.
LEARN MORE
"How do you buy diamonds?," is a frequently asked question. "What do diamonds cost?"... "What shape costs more?"... and so on. Most people consider the cost of diamonds somewhat mysterious. Truthfully, it's not mysterious at all. The cost of diamonds depends upon four characteristics called the 4C's, although we at Curt Parker Jewelers teach you the 10C's of diamond buying.
CLARITY
Most diamonds contain very tiny, natural birthmarks known as inclusions. However, the fewer and smaller the inclusions are, the less likely it is that they will interfere with passage of light through the diamond. Clarity is rated in grades from flawless to imperfect.
CUT
Don't confuse cut with shape. A well cut diamond is better able to return light, creating more fire, brilliance and sparkle.
COLOR
The most prized diamonds are colorless diamonds, because they are rare. The color grading scale varies from totally colorless to light color. The difference between one grade and its neighbor is very subtle. We never try to remember color; we use master diamonds of known color for color grading. Remember, diamonds come in all colors of the rainbow and there is no one best color.
CARAT-WEIGHT
The weight of a diamond is expressed in carats. One carat is divided into 100 "points" so that a diamond described as 50 "points" would weigh ½ of a carat. Carat weight does not mean "size," for a diamond of the same weight may appear to be larger or smaller depending on the cut and shape.
We have talked about the 4C's, now we will explain the other 6C's you should know about. Which "C" is the most important? Your diamond purchase should depend on a combination of all "10C's". No two diamonds are alike. No two jewelers are alike either, so we invite you to compare styles, quality and true value we offer you.
COST
The Diamond Information Service recommends two months' salary for your first engagement ring. Keeping in mind that diamond jewelry may come in many styles, such as diamond bands or bracelets, so do budgets. Our salesperson will work within your budget, to help you attain the greatest quality and value. We have exceptional diamond jewelry beginning at just $200.00.
CUSTOM DESIGN
The special qualities of a diamond can be further enhanced by the "right" setting, a design that complements both the diamond and the person wearing it. We will help you select the best diamond shape for you, as well as the type and color of precious metal for the diamond's setting. Creating updated looks for older diamond jewelry is one of our specialties.
CONFIDENCE
You have the assurance of the prestigious American Gem Society, an association of fine jewelers who are dedicated to customer protection and gemological expertise. We are AGS members and abide by their guidelines.
CERTIFICATE
All Curt Parker diamonds larger than ½ carat are available with a diamond grading report by the American Gem Society, Gemological Institute of America or the European Gemological Laboratory, Inc., verifying the clarity, color grade, carat weight, of your diamond with other important specifications. All diamonds purchased at Curt Parker are accompanied by an Insurance Replacement Report at no additional fee.
CARING FOR DIAMOND JEWELRY
We will teach you how to keep your diamond jewelry at its brilliant best. A clean diamond not only reflects light better, but actually looks bigger than one that's dirty. We recommend that you bring in your diamond jewelry once a year to have it inspected for signs of wear or loose prongs. We are always happy to professionally clean and check your diamond at no charge.
CUSTOMER SATISFACTION
Our client relationships are built on trust, confidence and customer satisfaction. For these reasons, Curt Parker Jewelers has found an enduring place among people who appreciate fine jewelry not because it is expensive, but because it is fine.
Diamonds are forever. Take your time and learn as much as you can. The more informed you are, the better choice you will make. Make sure you're buying the best quality, Curt Parker quality. After all, we would only want you to own a diamond that we would wear ourselves. Let us show you the extraordinary beauty our diamonds have to offer.