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For most people, the only time they buy diamonds is when they want wedding or engagement rings. The smart way to go about this is to get loose diamonds first and have them set later. You can inspect them for defects better, and improve your chances of a good deal. However, you need to be meticulous when buying. It's easy to make mistakes and give too much, or end up with an inferior diamond.

When looking at loose diamonds, you should confirm the diamond's value. You'll want to study each one for the four C's; carat weight, cut, clarity and color. But remember that each diamond is unique, and it's uncommon for a single diamond to get two separate assessments with identical results. Ultimately, the value of a diamond is subjective, so you shouldn't be too preoccupied looking for it's exact value.

The most prominent diamond cut is the round brilliant cut. Thanks to the work of Marcel Tolkowsky, the proportions needed to get the most brilliance and fire out of a diamond were determined and popularized. Further innovations perfected Tolkowsky's measurements to optimize diamond's potential for brilliance.

The round brilliant cut is also the perennial favorite cut. On the other hand, fancy cuts become popular based on prevailing fashions. Since people are interested in sparkle right now, the heart, oval, and pear cuts are popular. However, the quality and value of a diamond is based on other factors. You can easily get a high value diamond of any cut - or low value, if you buy recklessly.

So buy a diamond jewelry gift with any cut you desire. It may be a shape that catches you or your significant other's fancy, or one that evokes special memories or feelings within you. If all you want is a huge diamond, and you don't mind flaws, it's easy to get one for cheap. But even if you are buying cheap, you have to make your purchases carefully to avoid getting gypped.

When it comes time to set your loose diamond, it's safest to have it done by the same people who sold it to you. If you bring it to another jeweler, they won't want to be held accountable for any damage the diamond may acquire during setting. If the seller won't take responsibility for their own diamonds, leave them for a seller who will.