“I had an excellent experience with Rare Carat while searching for the perfect engagement ring. I ended up purchasing a 1.03 carat diamond with an Excellent cut, H color, and VVS2 clarity. When I told some friends how much I paid, they were shocked at the savings compared to what they had spent at overpriced jewelers.
I chose a timeless halo setting, and I couldn't be happier with the decision. For those out there—whether you're a bachelor or part of a couple—who are in the market for a ring, I highly recommend considering a similar approach.
To all the men looking for that 'perfect' D color, flawless clarity diamond, let me just say that my wife was blown away by her ring, even though it didn’t have the “perfect” specs she thought were necessary. Here are a few tips I followed:
1. Avoid whole carat sizes to maximize value.
2. Shop for colors above I and aim for VVS2 clarity or higher (trust me, only a gemologist could tell the difference). I've also heard that certain fluorescence can make a diamond appear whiter in certain lighting, potentially improving the appearance of a lower color grade stone.
3. Always check the certificate and ensure there are no significant inclusions that could decrease the diamond’s value over time. A few pinpoints are okay, but avoid feathers.
4. Decide on a budget before you start shopping. It's easy to get carried away with all the options, but setting a budget helps narrow down your choices and ensures you don’t overspend (I did a month of pay due to making a considerable amount of money as a single male).
Overall, I’m thrilled with my purchase, and I’m confident you will be too.”