If you are planning to buy a blue diamond engagement ring, knowing how to judge quality can help you save lots of money. There are many different rings out there to choose from and knowing what factors are involved will make you a savvy buyer. Though you can buy a ring based on price, you really want to get the most for you your hard earned cash. Diamond rings last a lifetime, so get one you will enjoy for the years to come.

First, take a look at what you need to know about the color of the blue diamond that you are looking at. Color grading in diamonds is done by setting a diamond next to a previously graded set of gems, and then the color is judged. The most expensive diamonds are the ones that are utterly colorless, and then they will go down in price from there until the color starts getting richer again. When you are looking at the color of your diamond, remember that in many cases, they will be judged to be part of a range rather than a specific rating. Unless you are specifically choosing a diamond that is large enough so that small gradations in color are fairly noticeable, you will find that there is nothing wrong with having a diamond that is judged to be part of a range. If you are set on a certain range, be aware that color grading can cost as much as an extra hundred dollars.

Clarity of the diamonds in your ring will be an important factor when choosing your ring. The quality of clarity is used to specify how much light can pass through a diamond. Flaws in the diamond will let less light reflect. To determine the clarity of a gemstone, experts will analyze the stone under a 10x jewelers loop or microscope. Flawless diamonds are the highest quality, in terms of clarity, that you can purchase. Remember that a diamond that does not allow much light to pass through it is not a very good diamond; this explains why you can find fairly inexpensive diamonds. Though they are meant for industrial uses, occasionally diamonds of grade P1 or P2 will make it into stores.

The cut of the diamond is the next attribute to consider when purchasing this type of ring. The cut of a diamond is determined by how proportional the gem is, how many facets, and how well the facets are reflect the light back to the wearer. The cut of your diamond will determine its brilliance, and it is worth noting that the most brilliant diamonds are invariably the round ones. Round diamonds have symmetrical proportions and all of the facets contribute towards the brilliance of the gem. Also consider cuts that might suit you, like the marquis cut or a diamond that has been cut into the shape of a pear or even a rectangle.

The final qualification you want to take a look at when you are considering a blue diamond engagement ring is the carat of your diamond, or rather, the size. As large diamonds are more rare, they cost more per carat than smaller ones. Know that a diamond is judged on more than size. So, a larger diamond may be the same price due to more imperfections, a less perfect cut or a less desirable color. Consider the grade of the diamond that you are interested in owning and making your own decision based on that.

A blue diamond engagement ring can be a beautiful gesture, so take some time and make sure that you consider what your options are going to be when you are thinking about getting the one that is perfect for your significant other.