A diamond necklace is a timeless gift that is always appreciated. However, for many buying a diamond necklace can feel overwhelming with so many options and specifications to consider.
This step-by-step guide will walk you through how to buy a stunning carat diamond necklace and a 1-carat diamond necklace tailored to your style and budget.
Types of Diamond Necklaces
The most common types of diamond necklaces are solitaires, station necklaces and diamond strands. A Solitaire diamond necklace features a single diamond as the focal point. Station necklaces have multiple diamonds spaced apart and linked together.
Strand necklaces contain many diamonds closely lined in a row. Strand necklaces typically use smaller diamonds, while station and solitaire necklaces often feature carat weights of 1 carat or higher per stone. Choose a style that aligns with your budget and personal style.
Types of Diamond Necklace Settings
The setting refers to how the diamonds are attached and displayed in the necklace. The most popular setting for larger stones is prongs and bezels. A prong setting uses thin metal claws to grasp the diamond. A bezel setting surrounds the diamond with a rim of metal.
Bezel settings tend to be the most secure. Pavé settings also use prongs but contain many small diamonds set close together, often used for strand necklaces. Consider settings that securely hold the stones while suiting your style.
Factors to Consider When Buying a Diamond Necklace
- Decide on your budget: Diamond necklaces can range from $500 up to $50,000 or more for high-end pieces. Set a budget before you start shopping.
- Determine the diamond shape: The most common shapes are round, oval, marquise and pear. Round diamonds are classic while the other shapes appear larger.
- Choose your diamond size: Diamond size is measured by carat weight. One carat equals 200 milligrams. For a solitaire necklace, 1 carat and above is typical. Strand necklaces use diamond sizes below 0.5 carats.
- Select your precious metal: Consider 14K or 18K white gold, yellow gold or platinum. White gold and platinum complement the white colour of diamonds. Platinum is the most durable and secure but also the most expensive.
- Consider the diamond quality: Choose stones with colour grades G-H for a bright white colour or I-J for a tinge of warmth at a lower price. For clarity, SI-1 or SI-2 ratings appear clean to the naked eye.
How to Find the Right Diamond Necklace
Shop stores that specialize in fine jewellery to view high-quality pieces and receive advice from experts. Compare chain jewellers that offer competitive pricing to find the best value. Search inventory from trusted online retailers like Blue Nile or James Allen where you can view 360° HD videos of actual diamond necklaces on offer.
Review the four C’s to determine the ideal combination of colour, clarity, cut, and carat weight within your budget. For the best sparkle, look for round diamonds or other shapes specifically cut as jewellery.
Consider diamond certification from GIA or AGS to ensure authenticity and quality. Diamonds not accompanied by a certificate could be miss represented.
Take your time and compare the pieces you are interested in side by side. Visualize how each diamond necklace would look with your everyday wardrobe to determine which complements your style best.
Never feel pressured to make a purchase quickly. Go home and sleep on your choice if needed. Buying a diamond necklace is an important decision and your satisfaction with the result is critical.
1 Carat Diamond Necklace
For a 1-carat centre stone, you can expect to pay between 2,000 GBP to 8,000 GBP depending on the 4 C’s. 1 carat symbolizes luxury and eternal love, making it a stunning gift for a special occasion. A round solitaire 1-carat diamond results in a necklace with a total length of approximately 1 inch, providing an eye-catching accessory that remains subtle.
Diamond Solitaire Necklace
A diamond solitaire pendant contains a single diamond, typically over 3/4 carat. The solitaire allows the beauty and sparkle of the stone to shine through, unadorned by smaller stones. The solitaire symbolizes purity, eternity and lasting love, making it a meaningful gift for an anniversary or as an engagement gift.
Gold Diamond Anklet
For a unique necklace, consider a gold diamond anklet necklace with multiple small diamonds individually prong-set into circular links of 14K gold. Each link contains rooms for 1-4 small diamonds, depending on your desired carat weight and budget. The anklet necklace has a delicate yet dazzling appearance that pairs well with both casual and formal wear.
Final Thoughts
Buying a carat diamond necklace does not have to feel stressful or confusing if you follow the right steps. Determine your necklace style and budget, thoroughly review diamond quality by understanding the 4 C’s, shop from reputable jewellers and consider important certificate details. A high-quality 1-carat or diamond solitaire necklace makes an ideal choice for a meaningful gift to last a lifetime. By taking your time to find the necklace that resonates most with you, you’ll discover a diamond necklace to cherish for years to come.
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