Here are some links that allow you to compare prices for round cut, loose diamonds that weigh approximately .75 to 1 carat. The diamonds here have different color, clarity and cut qualities. See how the differences affect diamond pricing. All of the diamonds are certified by the GIA. Follow the links to read detailed information about each diamond.
1) Round Diamonds, D Color, VVS1 Clarity
We'll start with diamonds that have a D color designation, the "best" rating for a colorless diamond. These stones are rated VVS1 for clarity, another top slot if you do not consider ratings for rare "perfect" diamonds. An ideal cut reflects most light entering the diamond, an important plus, so watch for that rating.
2) Round Diamonds, D Color, VVS2 Clarity
Prices go down slightly when we change clarity to VVS2, one notch below the diamonds above (but something most of us would never notice). Cuts differ here, so pay attention to that rating to see how it affects pricing.
3) Round Diamonds, F Color, VS1 Clarity
Prices dip dramatically when we step down to an F color diamond with VS1 clarity. These are still gorgeous diamonds! Don't think that going down the scale means you'll have a cloudy, off-color diamond. VS1 diamond inclusions are not easily seen by even an experienced grader. It isn't until you reach the lower rating levels--I1, I2, and I3--that inclusions begin to affect the beauty of a stone.
4) Round Diamonds, G Color, VS1 Clarity
Now we've left clarity alone and stepped down a few color slots to a "nearly colorless" diamond, which is what the G, H, I and J ratings signify (color tones increase as you move through the alphabet). You might never notice a color tint in this group of diamonds.
5) Round Diamonds, J Color, VS1 Clarity
Here's what happens to pricing when you go to J diamonds, stones with the most tinting in the G through J group.
6) Round Diamonds, J Color, SI1 Clarity
This mixture keeps color at J, but takes clarity down a notch to SI1, or Slightly Included 1. Diamonds of this grade have inclusions that are easily seen by an experienced grader--but you would probabely never notice them. You can see that choosing a diamond is like putting together an ensemble. You can mix and match components to get the qualities you are looking for, giving a little here and there until you've found the perfect stone.
