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One of the most difficult purchases faced by soon-to-be or newly-engaged couples is that of the diamond engagement ring. Oftentimes, the information available about diamonds is so overwhelming, it makes finding the perfect expression of your love more of a burden than a pleasure. However, in reality, this task is much easier than it sometimes feels. Too often, we get lost in the less important things like *What is the proper color?* or *How many carats are enough?* Of course these things matter, but ask yourself this question: *Why do we really like diamonds?*

To most people, the true appeal of a diamond is the unique way it sparkles * the shimmer and beauty when you move and how it catches the light. The jewelry industry refers to this as a diamond's *brilliance* or *brightness,* and it doesn*t just happen by chance. It is directly related to the quality of the diamond's cut. When you buy a diamond, this is what you should focus on.

Imagine a ray of light as it enters a diamond. Every time it reaches a new facet, the light bounces off in a new direction. With a well cut diamond, all of the facets will compliment each other, and the ray of light will be redirected back towards your eye, appearing as *sparkle.* However, when the diamond is not well cut, the ray of light goes elsewhere, and the diamond appears dull.

You'll likely notice the clarity of a diamond if you examine it with a magnifying glass (known in the industry as a *loupe*). And if you compare one diamond with another, you'll probably notice its color. But the quality of its cut is what will catch your eye most often. As long as you pick a well cut diamond, the other details like color and clarity won*t seem so big. When you select your diamond engagement ring * or a diamond for any other occasion * don*t lose sight of what makes diamonds appealing in the first place. Don*t lose sight of the sparkle.