When Is It Best To Purchase Loose Diamonds?

You are looking and looking for that perfect diamond piece, but nothing seems to work just right.
You find the stone shape that you are looking for, but the cut is not what you wanted.
You find a setting that you like, but the stone is the wrong size. You get the size, shape, cut and setting right, but the diamond just doesn't have the brilliance or color that you were looking for. This is an important purchase. This will be a signature piece in your jewelry collection. This is the kind of situation where it may be best to purchase loose diamonds and have your setting custom made.

Sure, custom settings cost more, but this is mitigated by the fact that you can often purchase loose diamonds at a discount, especially on line.


The same rules apply for loose diamonds as those in a setting.
Purchase from a reliable dealer, who specializes in the kind of stone that you are looking for.
Make sure that it is certified by a reliable jeweler or laboratory.

It is also a good idea whenever you purchase loose diamonds to have them independently appraised before you contract for a setting.

When looking for a custom jeweler, it is important to examine the artists body of work.
Does the style match your tastes?
Do the designs reflect the period that you fancy? (Ultra modern or retro?)
Often the jeweler who supplied the loose stones will try to sell you on a setting as well. This can be a good idea, as many dealers specialize in a particular style of diamond cut, and their jewelers will be well versed in these stones unique setting requirements.
But don't be pressured into one stop shopping.


Don't be afraid to send the design back for re-working if it does not meet your expectations. Custom means that the customer gets what the customer asked for.