Pippa Middleton's recent engagement has sparked a surge of interest in her ring. The first thing one notices and discusses when an engagement is announced, whether you are famous or not so famous, is the central rock. How big is it? What's the colour? Is it flawless? The design and other criteria linked to the engagement ring are discussed in almost every household with the announcement of an engagement. Hence, like it or not, 'the ring', in our opinion, is of paramount importance, not only to the bride and groom but to all associated with them; be they friends, family and or even jealous foes.
Pippa's Square Emerald or 'Asscher' cut diamond, from afar looks about 4 carats in size, without tint, and perhaps flawless. Having an estimated worth upwards of £200k; aptly suitedfor her social standing.
For us other mere mortals, one has to choose the central diamond carefully so that it creates an effect of magic, adorned on the third finger of the left hand.
Here, we always stress to go for the higher colour over higher clarity adhering to the budget in mind. Out of the 5C's, the most visible is the Carat and Colour. Some blemishes will not be visible to the naked eye immediately, but a tint of colour is visible. Size does matter, whatever one might say. This is the reason we predominantly stock rare white colours between D and F, and our largest sales by volume are D colour diamonds. This becomes a talking point among friends and family. "Oh, I have a D colour diamond, the best a girl can get", and the clarity is then not spoken about, unless it's a Flawless Diamond of course! The focus is then placed on the colour with praises all around.
Again bearing in mind the D colour should be certified by the GIA lab, not any other so that you know that the D colour is actually a D and not an F, G or even H. We always advice you to go for colour first, then carat and finally the clarity with any diamond purchase and balance them out to fit your spend. For example, if you are looking for a one carat G colour VS clarity diamond within your price range, rethink and look for a one carat D or E colour and SI clarity diamond for a similar price. At Marlow's most of our SI diamonds are visually stunning to the eye. Again, if you are searching for a half carat diamond, rethink, search clever and look for something slightly smaller like a 0.45 in a better colour and clarity.
Here at Marlow's we take pride in our knowledge about diamonds and can advice you accordingly as to the best shape, size, colour and clarity to suit you. A visit will be worth your while even if driving hundreds of miles to come to the heart of the Jewellery Quarter in Birmingham. One of the most important decisions in your life should not be left to chance online, rather should be seen visually for 100% satisfaction and confidence that you have made the right choice.
