1. How to Choose The Perfect Diamond
http://www.MyDiamondDiary.com

2. Introduction
Find the Perfect Diamond with our Tips
If you’re in the market for a sparkling, glittering diamond that really does you
proud, you’ll love our expert tips on finding the perfect diamond for your personal
tastes and budget.
Whether you’re shopping for yourself or for a special person, you’ll find that there
are some simple rules to follow that will guarantee that you are one hundred
percent satisfied with your purchase. By learning the ins and outs of shopping for
diamonds, you’ll have the best possible chance of success, whether you’re buying
online or offline.
Learn How Diamonds are Sorted and Classified
Grabbing the perfect, precious gemstone starts with understand how diamonds are
sorted and classified. After all, all diamonds are not created equal. In fact, some
diamonds are far superior to others, and this is generally reflected in the asking
price of these shimmering gemstones.
If you’ve noticed that two diamonds of comparable sizes have vastly different price
tags, it’s usually because the pricier gemstone is of higher quality. By getting a
handle on the way that diamond experts grade stones before selling them and
learning diamond “jargon”, you’ll become a diamond expert yourself!
Diamonds are graded according to the four “C’s”, and we’ll examine this grouping of
classifications in one chapter of this free e-book. We’ll also include some helpful
resources that will assist you with visually classifying any diamond that you are
interested in.
By giving you access to the same tools that the experts use to grade and judge
diamonds, we offer you added security and peace of mind as you prepare to make
your final selection and to choose the diamond that is exactly right for you.
Discover the Best Modern Diamond Jewelry Designs
Today, diamonds appear in lots of different jewelry styles, from classic solitaire
engagement rings to diamond necklaces to trendy toe rings! In a nutshell, men and
women both love sporting these classic precious gemstones, so they appear almost
anywhere that you may find fine jewelry. However, some retailers really don’t offer
the best prices or the most high-quality gemstones.
It’s important to work with reputable dealers who are known for their honesty,
integrity and quality products. For example, if you’re ordering online, it’s very
important to check out client feedback for a prospective retailer, in order to get the
inside scoop on whether or not their diamond designs or loose diamonds really
please their clientele.
In this e-book, we’ll help you find the online diamond retailers that really deliver,
and we’ll also help you to discover the best modern diamond jewelry designs.
Now that you know what this free e-book has to offer, why not sit back, relax, and
learn all about the exciting world of diamond buying?

3. Let’s start with some tried-and-true diamond buying tips that you will really
appreciate…
These tips and tricks from our diamond buying experts will help you to build
confidence and knowledge that will allow you to choose an ideal gemstone that
becomes a treasured part of your jewelry wardrobe.
If you’re shopping for a diamond engagement ring for your true love, following
these tips will ensure that she receives a stunning ring that really makes all of her
romantic dreams come true…
Chapter One
Tried-and-true Diamond Buying Advice
When it comes to buying a diamond that you’ll always be happy with, the first step
will always be figuring out exactly what you want. After all, there are diamonds of
all shapes and sizes, and it may be difficult to narrow down your choices. One of
the best ways to decide what is best is to peruse diamonds online.
Many retailers offer exciting, full-color photographs of their precious gemstones. For
example, if you’re looking for an engagement ring, check out designs online and
make a short list of styles that fit your needs.
Find the Right Cut and Color
Diamonds come in a variety of colors and cuts, so there are a veritable rainbow-riot
of choices, including princess-cut diamonds, round diamonds, square diamonds,
and brilliant-cut diamonds.
While you’re browsing online retailers, look at product details for styles you like. At
reputable retailers, the type of diamond cut will always be listed, and knowing what
cut works for you is the perfect way to begin searching for the ring (or other piece
of diamond jewelry) that is perfect for you.
After all, finding the right diamond is really about comparison shopping. Many
suppliers offer similar styles, so it’s up to you to get the best quality for your hard-
earned money. Once you’ve found a cut that pleases you, you’ll be ready to
comparison shop and find an appealing gemstone at the right price point.
At this point, begin to think about the color of your prospective diamond. Will you
be content with a classic and traditional icy-white diamond, or are you looking for
something a little bit out of the ordinary?
Today, colored diamonds are more popular than ever, and the hottest celebrities,
such as country music sensation Carrie Underwood, sport exciting colored
engagement rings. Carrie’s ring is a canary yellow diamond, surrounded by a circle
of stunning white diamonds. Jennifer Lopez is also a fan of yellow diamonds, which
flatter her warm Puerto Rican complexion beautifully.
Other popular colored diamonds include pink diamonds, champagne-colored
diamonds, and diamonds with a subtle blue cast. These gemstones are no less

4. precious than their white counterparts; how much colored diamonds will cost really
depends on their quality and size.
Read more about colored diamonds here:
http://www.mydiamonddiary.com/colored-diamonds/
Read more about diamond shapes here:
http://www.mydiamonddiary.com/diamond-shapes/
How Much Can You Afford to Spend?
The sky is the limit in terms of what you may potentially spend on a diamond.
Some diamonds that are auctioned by the world’s toniest auction houses, such as
Sotheby’s or Christie’s, sell for millions of dollars.
Examples of high-end diamonds include those auctioned from Elizabeth Taylor’s
estate after her passing. Diamonds with a story and history (known in the auction
business as “provenance”) tend to fetch higher prices. For example, even a
medium-quality gemstone that belonged to the notorious Duchess of Windsor will
go for very high rates, while the same diamond, without any special provenance,
will never command such high prices.
Of course, most people can’t afford to purchase diamonds with dazzling
provenance. If you’re on a budget and you’re shopping for a diamond engagement
ring, a good rule of thumb is to spend two month’s pay on the ring.
The larger the diamond, the more it will cost; that’s why big gemstones are status
symbols in our society. However, larger stones may not be worth their asking price
sometimes. Without understanding how diamonds are graded and classified, it may
be difficult to choose a stone that is priced correctly.
Read more about diamond prices here:
http://www.mydiamonddiary.com/diamond-prices/
If a Deal Seems “Too Good to be True”, Beware…
Always beware of deals that seem a little too good to be true. It’s very easy to be
taken in and ripped off when you don’t buy through a reputable online dealer or
respected local jeweler. In general, it’s best to avoid buying diamonds through
classified ad services, such as Craigslist, as these ad services tend to be lightning
rods for scammers.
Even eBay.com may be very risky in many ways, as you have no steadfast
guarantee of a seller’s honesty. Of course, checking buyer feedback for a particular
seller is helpful; however, when it comes to Internet auction services, anything can
happen, and many people who buy diamonds in this manner are very disappointed
with what they receive. If you’re buying online, avoid retailers that don’t have
proven track records in the diamond industry.
Since a diamond is an investment, you must vet prospective dealers very carefully
before spending money on a special gemstone. The work that you do before the
sale will guarantee a happy end result.

5. Check out Diamond Sellers Before You Buy
If you’re planning on buying from a jeweller in your community, check the Better
Business Bureau to make sure that a retailer is on the up-and-up. This simple step
will protect you from unsavory jewelers who may not deliver the best value to
clients. Good jewellers will usually be part of trade associations, and they will also
have credentials that prove that they are diamond experts.
Now that you have a better idea of which cut and color is right for you, you’ll be
ready to move forward into the crucial comparison shopping phase. Today, that
often means online shopping. After all, buying a diamond through a reputable
online retailer is one hundred percent safe, and buying online opens up access to a
world of choices that you would never have if you confined your shopping to local
malls or jewelers.
Buying online doesn’t have to be risky or unsafe; when you buy from the best,
you’ll enjoy perfect quality, competitive prices, and stellar customer service.
Whether you want a budget gemstone or a diamond with all of the bells and
whistles, you’ll love learning exactly how to get a great deal when shopping via the
World Wide Web.
Our next chapter is loaded with helpful advice about shopping for diamonds online.
Now that you have your short list of appealing cuts and colors, it’s time to learn
exactly how to score the ideal diamond on the Internet…
Chapter Two
Online Buying Tips
We’ve already advised you against buying diamonds from online auctions and
classified ads. However, there are plenty more guidelines to follow that will ensure
that you enjoy a safe and pleasant online shopping experience.
Before making a decision about choosing a diamond online, it’s important to weigh
the pros and cons of such a venture. When you have all of the facts, you’ll be ready
to make a wise and informed decision that is truly right for you. To help you learn
the ins and outs of diamond buying online, we’ve sorted out all of the pros and cons
to give you the base of knowledge that you really need before you feel truly safe
shopping via the World Wide Web:
Pros of Online Buying
 Better Prices - When you shop online, you’ll avoid the serious mark-ups
that are part and parcel of the bricks-and-mortar retail world. Online retailers
are competitive, because they know how much choice modern consumers
really have.

6. It’s entirely possible to find great deals on quality diamonds when you utilize
the awesome power of the World Wide Web. In fact, some websites even
amalgamate diamond deals, saving you tons of virtual “legwork”. Of course,
it’s also very easy to “comparison shop” at a variety of online retailers
through their official websites.
Simply bookmark any interesting rings, loose diamonds, or other pieces of
diamond jewelry. Once you’ve found four or five great designs, begin to
check out retailers, product details, and prices to find the smartest deal.
 Superlative Selection – When you shop online, you gain access to
diamonds from all over the world, and you’re not confined to choosing from a
community retailer’s limited selection of precious gemstones. In fact, great
selection is really one of the key benefits of selecting diamonds via the Web.
Whether you want candy-colored gemstones with a vibrant, whimsical
quality, or classic “rocks” that give off icy fire, you’ll adore the choices that
you find online.
From antique designs to modern cuts to arty and elegant diamonds, you’ll
have a rainbow-riot of choices at your fingertips when you shop using your
smart phone or home computer. In addition, it’s possible to compare
gemstones and their properties, without running yourself ragged driving or
walking around your own community.
If you don’t live in a bustling urban center, you’re missing out on a whole
world of diamonds; however, the Internet makes it so easy to find chic,
stunning gemstones wherever you happen to be.
 Flexible Services – Today’s online diamond retailers know that you expect
the very best (and most flexible) services when you buy via the Internet, and
the most reputable dealers really go the extra mile to please their valued
clientele. For example, some dealers will offer to ship diamonds to you for
your perusal, so that you may see how their products look in real life.
You will almost always pay shipping costs, so pay attention to how much they
will cost (as well as insurance policies that you’ll need to take out on a
diamond or diamonds), and you may need to buy the ring, stone or piece of
jewelry and then return it for a full refund if you’re not happy.
Investigate return policies carefully before making a final decision about
buying a stone because you want to view it in person. You must have every
assurance that a return will be simple and carefree should you need it. Once
you have this assurance, you may comparison shop with confidence.
Another bonus of online shopping for diamonds is that you may order a
gemstone and have it shipped to you wherever you happen to be. Whether

7. you’re in a Paris hotel or at a tropical resort, you’ll be able to have your item
express shipped to you almost immediately.
Of course, there are different types of shipping available, depending on when
you want to receive your diamond and how much you’re willing to spend. If
money is no object, it’s safe to say that your diamond will arrive in no time
flat. Send an email to an online retailer if you have special requests about
shipping.
A good purveyor of diamonds will respond to your requests within twenty-
four to forty-eight hours, and they will always treat you with the utmost
respect. If you don’t get the great communication that you need from an
online diamond retailer, it may be a cue to find another company instead.
Cons of Online Buying
 It Takes Longer – While online buying happens faster than ever before, it
does take a little longer than pointing out a diamond at a community-based
jeweler and then asking for that piece of jewelry or loose stone. Community
buying is automatic, while Internet buying means waiting at least a day to
get what you ordered (depending on the shipping method that you select).
However, when it comes to a major purchase, such as a beautiful diamond
gemstone, there should never be a rush to purchase.
In most cases, buying a diamond from a great online retailer, such as James
Allen is actually a much better strategy, because they have so much
selection, great prices, and a staff of online diamond experts who are
standing by to answer your questions and concerns while you search for the
perfect diamond.
Read more about James Allen here:
http://www.mydiamonddiary.com/james-allen-diamonds-and-jewelry/
When you buy too quickly in your own neighborhood or city, you may not get
the best deal, and you may find that you have regrets down the line. Why
limit yourself to a very small pool when you can choose from a veritable
ocean of high-quality diamonds via a trustworthy diamond seller.
 Shady Operators and Scammers – Of course, the Internet is a breeding
ground for all manner of shady operators and scammers, and some of them
are quite clever when it comes to luring in (and then deceiving) diamond
buyers. That’s why buying from an individual, rather than a company like
James Allen, is almost always a bad idea.

8. Reputable companies have built their online images over time by providing
stellar customer service across the board. These companies are aware that
that their reputations hinge on pleasing every single client that they serve.
Shady operators and scammers have no business reputations to speak of,
and they’ve usually drifted through various aliases and scams in order to
elude customers that they’ve burned in the past (and to keep one step ahead
of the authorities).
It is possible to shop safely online…all that you need to do is choose the right
retailer.
More Helpful Advice about Shopping for Diamonds Online
Now that you know more about the pros and cons of buying these precious,
lustrous gemstones via the World Wide Web, there is one more helpful piece of
advice that we want to share with you here. When you shop online, be sure that
your retailer offers a one hundred percent customer satisfaction guarantee.
You must have recourse to return your diamond for any reason. A diamond is a
major buy for most people, so having this backup in place is really incredibly
important. If you can’t get the guarantee that you need to feel protected while you
shop online for diamonds, it may be wise to take your business elsewhere. The best
retailers will have the guarantees that you need.
Read more about buying diamonds online here:
http://www.mydiamonddiary.com/how-to-buy-diamonds-online/
Chapter Three
Understanding the “Four C’s”
When it comes to buying diamonds, there is no better indicator of quality than the
“Four C’s”. Therefore, understanding these “measurements” of quality is an
important part of finding the ideal diamond for your tastes and budget. To give you
a convenient primer, we’ve detailed what each element of the 4 C’s really means,
and how each one affects the price and grading of a precious diamond gemstone.
Deciphering the 4 C’s
1. Cut - As we discussed previously, diamonds come in different cuts or styles,
and this means that a diamond cutter creates certain shapes out of a raw
diamond, and then adds facets that are designed to catch the light.

9. Whether you choose a round, brilliant, princess or square cut diamond (or
any other custom cut), you will find that a gemstone’s cut factors into the
value and quality of the precious gemstone.
2. Color – The color of your diamond, whether it is clear or colored, may impact
the value of the stone. Whether you choose a white diamond, blue diamond,
canary-yellow diamond, pink diamond, or champagne diamond, you will find
that the price of the stone may be affected by its color grading.
3. Clarity - Very clear diamonds, which are free of flaws (known in the diamond
industry as occlusions), will fetch the highest prices in the marketplace.
White diamonds without occlusions (or with very few occlusions) will be very
valuable gemstones. However, colored diamonds may also be free of flaws
and these may also be very pricey.
If you’re looking for a budget diamond, you may need to choose a gemstone
with some flaws. These flaws are usually invisible to the untrained eye, but
expert gemologists will spot them immediately by examining a diamond
under a jeweler’s loupe tool.
4. Carat Weight – Big diamonds are obviously worth more, as long as
cut, color and clarity are of a certain caliber. Smaller diamonds will usually
cost less.
Read more about the 4 C's of diamonds here:
http://www.mydiamonddiary.com/infographic-the-4-cs-of-diamonds/
Chapter Four
Types of Diamond Jewelry
Many types of jewelry may contain diamonds, although diamonds are most
commonly associated with diamond rings. To help you make a decision about
choosing diamond jewelry (or loose diamond gemstones), we’ve compiled a helpful
quick guide to today’s most common diamond jewelry types. With our guidelines,
you’ll know exactly what to look for.
Again, when you choose diamonds online, be sure to work with a reputable
diamond seller, such as JamesAllen.com, to avoid getting burned or having a less-
than-impressive customer service experience. To best diamond retailers will offer a
wealth of beautiful diamond selections at very competitive prices, and they will back
up their products with ironclad guarantees and the most caring, dependable
customer service policies.

10. Here are some the most popular and charming diamond jewelry designs in the
world:
Diamond Engagement Rings – Diamond engagement rings are available in host
of styles. However, the most well-known type of diamond engagement ring is
probably the diamond solitaire. This type of ring features one gemstone, and it
usually features a simple, streamlined setting that shows off the beauty of the
diamond to its best advantage.
Available in white, yellow, or rose gold, diamond solitaire engagement rings are
very desirable to ladies, and many men choose them when they are shopping for
the perfect “rock” for an upcoming proposal.
However, there are other types of engagement rings, and some feature clusters of
precious gems. For example, an engagement ring may feature a wider band that is
encrusted with pave diamonds that give it a sleek, modern and glamorous look.
Other rings may feature two or three diamonds in interesting configurations. Some
settings will be ornate, and others will be basic.
Read more about engagement rings here:
http://www.mydiamonddiary.com/engagement-ring-settings/
Right-hand Rings – These rings are often purchased for women, by women. In
fact, there is something about buying one’s own diamond ring that modern,
independent women really enjoy. Designed to be worn on the right-hand, rather
than as engagement rings, these pieces are usually more trendy, stylish and daring.
Designed to complement a woman’s wardrobe, a right-hand ring is also the perfect
way to show off a sexy, fresh manicure.
Diamond Earrings – Diamond earrings make a great gift for any special lady, and
diamond stud earrings may even be worn by men. These types of gemstone
earrings come in a range of styles, from Irish Claddagh earrings with heart-shaped
diamonds to chandelier earrings that feature delicate rows of tiny, shimmering
diamonds.
Available in different colors, diamond earrings light up the face and add polish and
sophistication to any outfit. These earrings may be modern or traditional, and they
may be as lavish or simple as you like. You may find diamond earrings at James
Allen or other online retailers.
Read more about diamond earrings here:
http://www.mydiamonddiary.com/diamond-earrings/
Diamond Necklaces – Diamond necklaces are often luxurious, and, like many
other types of diamond jewelry, they may take on great sentimental value through
the years. Sometimes, very fancy diamond necklaces, which have significant carat
weight, become family heirlooms that are passed down from generation to
generation.

11. Diamond pendants on simple chains represent one common style of diamond
necklaces; however, there are also ultra-glamorous diamond chokers and necklaces
that feature tons of glittering gemstones (and very little chain!). Prices for diamond
necklaces range from a hundred dollars or less to millions of dollars, so there will
always be something for everyone to enjoy at any conceivable price point.
Read more about diamond necklaces here:
http://www.mydiamonddiary.com/diamond-necklace/
Diamond Bracelets – The most famous types of diamond bracelets are known as
“tennis bracelets”, and they feature one row of diamonds, which are all exactly the
same size. However, these days, you may find a range of diamond bracelets of
many different styles. Some bracelets may be artsy and whimsical, and others may
be statement pieces, such as solid metal cuffs decorated with colored or white
diamonds.
Read more about diamond bracelets here:
http://www.mydiamonddiary.com/diamond-tennis-bracelet/
Diamond Charms - Today, charm bracelets and charm necklaces are very popular,
and many charms for these trendy pieces of jewelry are embellished with gorgeous,
genuine diamonds.
Women tend to mark milestones in their lives with their charms; for example, a
charm may resemble a tiny engagement ring (with a miniature diamond solitaire)
to mark an engagement. Other choices include silver or white gold baby booties
with diamond details.
As you can see, there is certainly no shortage of diamond jewelry out there.
However, the quality and resale value of diamond jewelry should always be carefully
considered before it is purchased.
Knowing what you want from your diamond jewelry is very important. If you’re
simply looking for style and you adore the look of authentic diamonds, then
whimsical or creative pieces will work for you, whether or not they have a lot of
value.
If you’re a collector, and you prize more expensive pieces that will retain much of
their value over time, consider exquisite, high-quality diamond designs from James
Allen, or vintage antique pieces that have special provenance (history) attached to
them.
Whatever you choose, be sure to wear your diamond jewelry regularly. Just be sure
to have any settings and clasps checked once per year, to ensure that your precious
gemstones are properly secured. As well, look into insurance for more costly pieces.
Diamond jewelry is meant to be worn, loved and admired, rather than “hidden” in a
jewelry box.

12. Conclusion
Now, You’re Ready to Buy…
Now that we’ve shown you how to buy diamonds and how to enjoy a positive
shopping experience while you do it, you’re all ready to buy the diamond jewelry of
your dreams!
Taking the plunge is so worth it, as diamond jewelry is definitely some of the
world’s most desirable jewelry. As long as you follow our tips, such as choosing the
right online retailer and paying attention to the Four C’s, you’ll have every chance
of selecting beautiful, high-quality diamond designs that are truly out of this world.
With our Tips, You’ll May Find a Perfect Diamond Every Single Time…
Whether you want low-cost pieces to give as gifts or a stunning engagement ring
that really gets noticed, you’ll love the variety of styles and price points that you’ll
find at JamesAllen.com and other reputable fine jewelers.
No matter how to decide to buy, our tips will help you to find the most stunning and
unforgettable diamond designs in the world. Of course, using the power of the
World Wide Web to find just the right pieces is always a great diamond shopping
strategy.
How to Wear Your New Diamond Design
How you wear diamond jewelry is totally up to you; for example, some men and
women express their own personal senses of style by wearing a few diamond
bracelets or necklaces together for a cool, current, layered look. Other people
prefer to keep it simple by spotlighting just one piece of diamond jewelry.
For casual occasions, avoid drop earrings or big diamond cocktail rings, as these
pieces may look a little showy with jeans or other everyday clothing items. For
more formal occasions, pull out all of the stops with statement pieces that really get
attention.
However, there are never any hard and fast rules when it comes to showing off a
stunning diamond jewelry wardrobe. In fact, some of the most stylish people in the
world enjoy breaking the rules on a regular basis.
Examples of celebrities who love diamonds and wear them with great style and
individuality include famous producer Cee Lo, rapper P. Diddy, Mariah Carey, the
late and great Elizabeth Taylor, Jennifer Lopez, Carrie Underwood, and Halle Berry.
In fact, it’s safe to say that almost any glamorous celebrity dons a diamond or two
now and then.
Read more about diamonds at:
http://www.MyDiamondDiary.com