Buying diamond for wedding rings needs a basic knowledge that can ensure you are not regretting you choice later on. In choosing for diamond you need to keep in mind the 4 Cs of diamond  - color, cut, clarity, and caret. Some also include the fifth c, cost.

The first “C” is Color, except for the “colored diamonds”, the more colorless a diamond is, the more valuable it is. Diamonds are graded on a scale from D (colorless) to Z (light yellow). Anything more yellow than D is considered colored diamond and is much more expensive.

The second “C” is Cut, be advised that cut does not mean the shape of the diamond. Rather, it means the way the diamond was faceted to allow light to reflect from it. In a well cut diamond, light enters the diamond and reflects straight back to the viewer’s eye.

For layperson cut can be something very difficult to evaluate, which is why it is important to get an AGS Certificate or a GIA Certificate verifying the quality of your diamond. Cut is graded Ideal, Premium, Very Good, Good, Fair, and Poor. Generally you should seek an Ideal to Very Good Diamond. For budget-conscious shoppers Good Grade can be a good option.

The next “C” is Clarity, frequently small flaws, air bubbles, scratches, or other minerals are found inside the diamond. The less inclusions a diamond has, the more valuable it is, and the more beautiful it is.

The scale for grading diamond’s clarity is:

• F Flawless - no internal or external inclusions.
• IF Internally Flawless - no internal inclusions, slight external inclusions.
• VVS1-VVS2Very Very Slightly Included - minute inclusions that are very difficult to detect under 10x magnification, even by an experienced grader.
• VS1-VS2 Very Slightly Included - minute inclusions that are invisible to the naked eye and seen only with difficulty under 10x magnification.
• SI1-SI2 Slightly Included - invisible to the naked eye, yet easily seen by an experienced grader under 10x magnification.
• I1-I3 Included - inclusions are visible to the naked eye and affect brilliance.

Stones that are VVS2 to F are very rare and thus very expensive. Most couples will opt for something between SI2 and VS1, and will never know the difference.

The last “C” is Caret that refers to the size of the stone. The size of the diamond is based on you preference, some value bigger size, others prefer a small ring regardless of budget.