How a Diamond Consultant Can Help You Buy the Best Loose Diamond for Your Dollar

The notion of hiring a diamond consultant might sound elitist, but if you are in the market for a loose diamond, you can afford to hire a diamond consultant.  In fact, you really can’t afford not to hire one if you are intent on getting the very best diamond for your money.  As a diamond buyer, you are only capable of purchasing a diamond based on the limited knowledge you can acquire by doing research, such as learning about the four Cs.  But a diamond consultant not only puts many years of experience to work but has connections in the industry that can help you get the very best loose diamond.  And of course, the diamond consultant’s primary concern is that you are happy with your purchase – very rarely will you have someone looking out for your interests when making a large purchase like this.  Here are the basics of working with a diamond consultant.

• A diamond consultant works on a flat-fee basis.  This offers a distinct advantage over the commission-based fee traditionally paid to jewelers.  No matter what diamond you purchase, the consultant gets the same fee, so he can focus on getting you the best loose diamond for your dollar.
• Your budget is an important consideration for the diamond consultant in terms of narrowing down your options, so nail it down.  If you keep changing your budget, even by a few hundred dollars, you will quickly become confused about your options.
• That said, try to be flexible with your price range.  Your consultant may locate a diamond that is only a few hundred dollars over your budget but significantly brighter or larger than other options.  This is because imperfections that lower the value of the diamond may be invisible to the naked eye, making it a better diamond for you.  
• Be sure your consultant works with GIA-certified diamonds.  This will ensure that you get what you pay for as far as your diamond is concerned.  
• Decide what shape diamond you are looking for ahead of time as well.  There are plenty of pictures on the internet to help you decide.  The vast majority of diamonds purchased in the US are round, with a small but significant minority square-shaped.
• Allow plenty of time for your search and be patient.  Most diamond consultants keep their fees manageable by keeping a very small inventory; your diamond consultant may need to contact several sources before locating the perfect selection.  Diamond consultants don’t have allegiance to any particular vendor, which is to your benefit since they can focus on finding the best diamond for your money.  However, conducting this search takes time.  
• Carefully review the return policy for your diamond.  Usually, returns must be made within seven days.  Be sure to tell the consultant why, specifically, you don’t like the diamond.  As with any relationship, communication with your diamond consultant is key to a happy ending.