conflict diamond

Not many things in life carry the emotional thrill that comes with buying the perfect piece for the one you want to spend forever with. With countless diamond shapes, settings, metals, and price points to consider, it's easy to wonder where to begin. Whether you're shopping together or planning a surprise proposal, understanding the basics before you visit a jewelry store will help you make the best decision for you and your partner.  

If you’re starting to venture into this world of diamond buying, let this guide help you make educated and stress-free decisions. Here are Five Tips to consider before you go ring shopping. 

Tip 1: Have a Clear Understanding of the 4 Cs of Diamond Buying 

The 4 Cs of diamond buying include Cut, Clarity, Carat and Color. Having a basic understanding of these four diamond characteristics will help you have better conversations with your jeweler and offer you the vocabulary to ask the important questions. 

Choosing a Center Stone

The center stone is the focal point of an engagement ring and deserves careful consideration. While diamonds remain the most popular choice, many couples also explore colored gemstones or lab-grown diamonds. 

Diamond vs. Gemstone Durability

For everyday wear, durability matters.

Natural and lab-grown diamonds both rank 10 on the Mohs Hardness Scale, making them the hardest gemstone available. This exceptional hardness helps resist scratching and makes diamonds ideal for rings worn daily. 

Other gemstones are beautiful but generally softer: 

• Sapphire: 9
• Ruby: 9
• Emerald: 7.5–8
• Morganite: 7.5–8
• Aquamarine: 7.5–8
• Opal: 5.5–6.5

 While sapphires and rubies are durable enough for daily wear, softer stones typically require additional care and more protective settings.

Sizing, Fit, and Practical Considerations

Professional ring sizing is one of the simplest ways to ensure long-term comfort.

Finger size changes throughout the day and throughout the year due to temperature and activity, so an in-store sizing appointment provides the most accurate measurement.

Keep in mind that some rings are easier to resize than others. 

Pavé bands, eternity bands, and rings with diamonds extending around the entire band often have limited resizing options because adjusting the ring can affect stone placement and structural integrity. 

Ring profile also affects everyday comfort. 

Lower-profile rings sit closer to the finger and are less likely to catch on clothing or gloves, while higher-profile settings provide greater visibility for the center stone but may require more awareness during daily activities.

Tip 2: Set a Budget That Works for You

Forget every rule of thumb you’ve heard in the past and instead make sure you are comfortable with the amount you’re looking to spend. This number will also enable your jeweler to show you all that’s possible. Because of our customized approach, we have engagement rings that fit every budget and style. The price could depend on if you’re looking to use either lab-grown or natural diamonds. 

Lab-Grown vs. Natural Diamonds

One of the biggest differences between natural and lab-grown diamonds is cost. 

Lab-grown diamonds generally cost significantly less than natural diamonds of similar size and quality. This often allows buyers to purchase a larger diamond or higher color and clarity grades within the same budget. 

Natural diamonds, however, formed deep within the earth over billions of years, remain rarer and often command higher prices because of their scarcity and enduring market demand. 

Custom Design and In-Store Consultations

Custom jewelry allows you to create a ring that reflects your relationship while fitting your budget and style preferences. At La Bijouterie, custom consultations include discussing inspiration, reviewing diamond options, selecting settings, and refining every design detail before production begins. Be sure to bring in; inspiration photos, preferred shapes, ring size, budget and, of course, any existing family jewelry you’d like to use.  

We do not work off commission so you can feel confident knowing that this will be a stress-free experience. 

Tip 3: Decide Which of the 4 Cs Will be Most Important to You and Your Partner 

For some, carat size is the most important, while others focus on color or clarity, but the “C” that determines the sparkle/luster and beauty of a diamond is the cut. Some other things to also consider are colored diamonds or fancy cut non-traditional diamonds. In addition to the 4 Cs, the ring style can be classically traditional or uniquely yours.

Popular engagement ring styles include:

• Solitaire rings
• Halo engagement rings
• Three-stone rings
• Pavé bands
• Vintage-inspired designs
• Hidden halo settings
• Cathedral settings
• Modern bezel settings

Many couples also choose to personalize every detail through our custom jewelry services, allowing them to select the center stone, setting, metal, and finishing details.

Selecting the Right Shape

Or perhaps the cut is what’s most important in your ring. Different diamond shapes complement different hands and personal styles.

Popular shapes include: 

• Round Brilliant
• Oval
• Cushion
• Emerald
• Radiant
• Pear
• Marquise
• Princess
• Asscher
• Heart

Longer shapes such as oval, marquise, and pear often create the illusion of longer, slimmer fingers. Round and cushion cuts offer timeless appeal, while emerald and Asscher cuts highlight clean architectural lines and understated elegance. 

Some shapes require more protection than others. Diamonds with pointed corners or tips; including pear, marquise, princess, and heart shapes—benefit from protective settings that shield vulnerable edges. V-shaped prongs, bezel settings, or specially designed protective prongs help reduce the risk of chipping during everyday wear.

Settings, Side Stones, and Protection

Side stones can dramatically change an engagement ring's appearance. 

Halo Settings

A halo surrounds the center diamond with smaller diamonds, increasing sparkle while making the center stone appear larger. 

Pavé Settings

Pavé settings feature numerous small diamonds set closely together along the band, creating continuous brilliance with minimal visible metal. 

Channel Settings

Channel settings place diamonds securely between two strips of metal, providing a sleek appearance while protecting the stones from everyday wear. 

Matching Side Stone Color

For the most cohesive appearance, side stones should closely match the center stone's color. Consistent color grades create a balanced, harmonious look and prevent noticeable differences between the center diamond and accent stones.

Protecting Pointed Shapes

Pear, marquise, princess, and heart-shaped diamonds benefit from additional protection through V-prongs or bezel settings that reinforce vulnerable points without sacrificing beauty.

Tip 4: Understanding the Role Table Size Plays in a Diamond 

Table size or table percentages indicate the ratio of the width of the diamond's top facet (table) in relation to the width of the entire stone. When it comes to diamond tables, bigger is not always better. If the diamond table is too large, the upper facets on the crown will lack the room to disperse light. Generally, the best-looking diamonds have table sizes in the range of 55% to 60% (measured as a percentage of the diameter of the diamond). The size of the table is more important in larger diamonds, say over 1/2 ct. 

The setting, metal and band types will also affect the overall size and shape.  

Setting, Metal, and Band Choices

The setting influences both the appearance and durability of your engagement ring.

Prong Settings 

Prong settings use small metal claws to hold the diamond securely while allowing maximum light to enter the stone. This style maximizes brilliance and remains one of the most popular engagement ring settings.

Bezel Settings

A bezel setting surrounds the diamond with a protective rim of precious metal. It provides excellent protection against everyday impacts and is ideal for active lifestyles or occupations requiring frequent hand use.

Flush Settings

Flush settings position the diamond nearly level with the band's surface, creating a sleek, modern appearance while offering outstanding protection from accidental bumps and snags. 

Consider your partner's existing jewelry when selecting metal. Common options include, platinum, white gold, yellow gold, rose gold. If they primarily wear white jewelry, platinum or white gold often creates the most cohesive look. Those who favor warmer tones may prefer yellow or rose gold.

Band Width and Comfort

Band width affects both appearance and wearability. Narrow bands create a delicate look and can make the center stone appear larger, while wider bands provide greater presence and durability. Comfort-fit bands feature rounded interiors that make everyday wear more comfortable, especially for rings worn continuously.

Wedding Band Compatibility

Think ahead to how the engagement ring will pair with a wedding band.

Some elaborate settings require specially shaped wedding bands, while low-profile or flush settings may limit stacking options. Discuss wedding band compatibility during the design process to ensure both rings fit beautifully together.

Tip 5: Verify That It Is a GIA Certified Diamond 

Feel confident asking to see the diamond certificate. This is a monumental purchase so, of course, you want to know that what you’re buying is authentic and conflict free. GIA tests every diamond submitted to establish its authenticity as a diamond and whether it's been subjected to treatments. GIA reports provide a full description of the diamond, including color, weight, measurements, and cutting style, and will disclose any known treatments.

It’s wise to be aware of the several types of diamonds available on the market. 

Natural Diamonds

Natural diamonds are created beneath the Earth's surface over billions of years through intense heat and pressure. Each stone is unique and carries geological history that many buyers value.

When purchasing a natural diamond, certification is essential. Reputable grading reports verify the stone's quality according to the 4 Cs and confirm that the diamond matches its documented characteristics.

Always ask your jeweler about the diamond's origin and request documentation regarding ethical sourcing and responsible supply chain practices.

Lab-Grown Diamonds

Lab-grown diamonds have the same chemical, optical, and physical properties as natural diamonds. They are genuine diamonds created in controlled laboratory environments rather than mined from the earth.

They offer exceptional value for buyers who prioritize size or budget while still wanting a diamond with the same sparkle and durability as a natural stone.

Diamond Alternatives

Some couples choose alternative center stones such as: 

• Sapphire
• Ruby
• Emerald
• Moissanite
• Morganite

Each offers a unique appearance, though durability, maintenance requirements, and long-term wear vary. 

Aftercare, Insurance, and Maintenance 

Regular maintenance helps preserve your engagement ring's beauty and brilliance.

A simple weekly cleaning routine using warm water, mild dish soap, and a soft toothbrush removes oils and everyday buildup that can reduce sparkle.

Professional inspections once or twice a year allow jewelers to check prongs, tighten stones, and identify normal wear before problems develop.

If your ring is crafted in white gold, remember that it may require periodic rhodium plating to maintain its bright white appearance over time. 

Jewelry insurance provides valuable protection against loss, theft, accidental damage, or the ring being lost. Many policies can be added to homeowners or renters’ insurance, or you can purchase specialized jewelry coverage for broader protection. 

Questions to Ask Your Jeweler 

After purchasing your ring, obtain an independent appraisal for insurance purposes. An appraisal documents the ring's value and provides important information if the jewelry is ever lost, stolen, or damaged. Our knowledgeable jewelers will welcome your questions regarding appraisals, custom orders and any other queries you may have. 

• What warranty coverage is included?
• How long will a custom order take?
• Are rush services available?
• Can I see a design rendering before the ring is created?
• Where did this diamond originate? 

Bring inspiration images and accurate ring size information to your appointment. Having visual references and sizing details allows your jeweler to recommend designs that align with your vision while ensuring a comfortable fit. 

At La Bijouterie, our sole purpose is to help couples achieve a milestone moment in their lives any way we can. We believe in quality over quantity and educating our customers in what’s the best ring for them. Before committing to such an important decision, book a worry-free, 30 minute, 1:1 appointment with us. 

At Your Service,

Set F.

Founder, La Bijouterie

You’re about to make the biggest purchase of your life, yet wish you could clarify a few questions and clear up a few rumors you have heard about the diamond industry as a whole. Well look no further because we’re debunking some of the common misconceptions in hopes you breathe a sigh of relief.

Myth: Diamond mining is terrible for the environment

Reality: Considering little to no chemicals are used during diamond mining, (which would otherwise be harmful to the staff’s health), diamond mining is generally less harmful to the environment than other types of mining. Additionally, the orebodies used in mining are vertical not horizontal, ultimately affecting less of the surrounding area. Many companies have established protected habitats adjacent to their operations, often times larger than the mining operation itself.

Myth: There is a high chance that you could buy a conflict diamond

Reality: One of the most popularized myths of all is the issue of conflict diamonds — or “blood diamonds”. During the brutal civil wars in Sierra Leone and Angola in the 1990s, the diamond industry has made great strides given what this time unveiled. Since the introduction of the Kimberley Process (KP) certification scheme and the World Diamond Council (WDC) System of Warranties, more than 99.8% of the world’s diamonds are certified conflict-free, with the support of 81 countries.

Today the industry is mostly self-regulated, and various countries have additional layers of government regulation in place. The UK’s Government Diamond Office, for example, works closely with HM Revenue & Customs, the European Commission and civil groups to combat illicit diamonds.

Additionally, there are voluntary and self-regulation systems that are effective in maintaining the diamond pipeline. Like most jewelers, we want to ensure our customers have the confidence to know that our source of supply is conflict-free. Additionally, may jewelers subscribe to the Responsible Jewelery Council, De Beers’ Best Practice Principles, and the Signet Responsible Sourcing Protocol.

Myth: The diamond industry is a monopoly, owned by De Beers.

Reality: The good news is no one company has had controlled the market for decades. This myth dates back to the 1980’s when De Beers did indeed control over 90% of the supply chain and was almost wholly responsible for marketing diamonds, having developed its famous “A Diamond Is Forever” slogan in the 1940s. This also led to the perception that De Beers “invented” the diamond engagement ring, when in fact the first was recorded as early as 1477 byArchduke Maximillian of Austria, who commissioned the very first diamond engagement ring on record for his betrothed, Mary of Burgundy.

By the 1990s, the market for new mining companies opened, breaking the hold that De Beers and Alrosa had on the industry and ushering in a new wave of diamond discoveries in Angola and Canada, according to Pouroulis.

Today De Beers company share of the diamond market is closer to 35%, while five other companies divide the remaining 65% of diamond share.

Myth: Diamond mining individuals and communities are mistreated and at-risk

Reality: To first understand why this myth is so false, you must first understand how the mining process works and how much diamond mines actually help strengthen a community. The isolated nature of diamond mines means the workforce lives close by and develops a community spirit, which the diamond industry supports by investing in hospitals, schools, training and bursary programs.

For example, 33% of Botswana’s GDP comes from diamond mining, and an estimated five million people globally have access to health care thanks to diamond revenues, according to diamondfacts.org.

Today’s mining is not done by hand but is quite automated with miners moving millions of tons of rocks per year. Miners operating large earth loaders in open pits or underground would never even see a diamond.

Myth: The diamond industry is secretive and closed to outsiders and not to be trusted.  

Reality: This myth simply stems from a place of fear. The high-value nature of diamonds may be to blame for the presumption that the industry is filled with inaccessible people and organizations, more comfortable with secrecy than transparency. The reality is there is a whole spectrum of hard-working people all at different levels of financial success. Just like any business, success in the diamond industry is all dependent on how a business has been built.

It’s not uncommon for society to expect to see businesses reporting on their social activities, financials and stakeholders to increase transparency and trust. This shift in societal expectation has created major changes in the diamond sector for the better - more transparency and more trust.

You might also be pleased to know that diamond retailers such as De Beers are not sitting on stockpiles of diamonds nowadays, but instead build up inventory before making a sale as any retailer would.

Have a question that wasn’t addressed above? Leave us a comment below!

~ LB