Whether you are searching for a gift for that special someone, or simply looking for yourself, it is without a doubt that a pair of diamond stud earrings are an excellent choice. Practical, timeless and oh-so-chic, a beautiful pair of studs are a jewellery box staple and complement every outfit seamlessly. With so much choice you may be wondering which style to choose from and what the key differences are between each piece. Here are a few of our top tips to follow when you are searching for the perfect pair of diamond studs.
Set your budget
This may seem like an obvious starting point when investing in any piece of diamond jewellery, but it is important to have a budget in mind. Your budget will determine the size and quality of the diamond that you can afford. Once your budget is in place you can then look at finding the best value for your money.
Follow the 4 C’s
You may already be familiar with the 4 C’s - cut, carat, clarity and colour, when buying diamond jewellery (if you are not, feel free to visit our Diamond Education Guide). It is worth pointing out that with diamond studs, the quality isn’t as important as it is when you are searching for a ring. This is due to the fact that it is highly unlikely that studs will be viewed up close when compared to a diamond ring that is more exposed.
If you wish to get the best value for your budget then you can get away with a lower clarity grading, as small inclusions or flaws will t be as noticeable on an earring, and also a lower colour grade. The most important thing to consider when following the 4 C’s for diamond earrings is cut, as diamonds with a higher cut grade tend to generate more sparkle. Of course, the carat weight will be important too as this will generally determine the size and appearance of your diamond studs. It is, however, important to note that when looking at carat weight for diamond earrings, the weight listed is for the two studs combined. For example, for earrings listed as 1ct, each stud will be 0.50ct.
Choose a setting
Basket and prong are the most common settings seen for diamond earrings. These settings showcase the diamonds at their best and provide plenty of sparkle. The finish is both classic and minimalistic in appearance.
A martini setting is also a fairly popular setting, this style typically has three prongs holding the stone in place - mimicking the shape of a martini glass. As the shape becomes narrower at the bottom, this setting allows the diamond to sit closer to the earlobe.
Bezel-set studs are a great option for everyday wear as the diamond is surrounded by it’s metal setting for added security.
Choose a diamond shape
From the timeless round to the contemporary emerald cut, there are just as many options when it comes to diamond shape as there are when you are buying a ring. The shape you choose will ultimately depend on personal taste, although it is a good idea to note that it can also affect the price. For example, if you are searching for a design that will never go out of style then a round shaped diamond is a good option, for something a little fancier you may want to consider a marquise cut.
Choose a metal type
Most people will have a preference on metal type when buying jewellery and your selection should be based on personal taste. From elegant white gold and durable platinum to the beautiful and fashion-forward rose gold, there are many finishes to choose from. Those with particularly sensitive skin may wish to opt for platinum for their diamond earrings as it is a hypoallergenic metal.
The type of metal you choose will also have an effect on the price you pay for your diamond studs, for example platinum is more expensive than white gold, so it is a good idea to bear this in mind when you are looking to make a purchase.
SHOP DIAMOND STUDS
Whether you are searching for a gift for that special someone, or simply looking for yourself, it is without a doubt that a pair of diamond stud earrings are an excellent choice. Practical, timeless and oh-so-chic, a beautiful pair of studs are a jewellery box staple and complement every outfit seamlessly. With so much choice you may be wondering which style to choose from and what the key differences are between each piece. Here are a few of our top tips to follow when you are searching for the perfect pair of diamond studs.
Set your budget
This may seem like an obvious starting point when investing in any piece of diamond jewellery, but it is important to have a budget in mind. Your budget will determine the size and quality of the diamond that you can afford. Once your budget is in place you can then look at finding the best value for your money.
Follow the 4 C’s
You may already be familiar with the 4 C’s - cut, carat, clarity and colour, when buying diamond jewellery (if you are not, feel free to visit our Diamond Education Guide). It is worth pointing out that with diamond studs, the quality isn’t as important as it is when you are searching for a ring. This is due to the fact that it is highly unlikely that studs will be viewed up close when compared to a diamond ring that is more exposed.
If you wish to get the best value for your budget then you can get away with a lower clarity grading, as small inclusions or flaws will t be as noticeable on an earring, and also a lower colour grade. The most important thing to consider when following the 4 C’s for diamond earrings is cut, as diamonds with a higher cut grade tend to generate more sparkle. Of course, the carat weight will be important too as this will generally determine the size and appearance of your diamond studs. It is, however, important to note that when looking at carat weight for diamond earrings, the weight listed is for the two studs combined. For example, for earrings listed as 1ct, each stud will be 0.50ct.
Choose a setting
Basket and prong are the most common settings seen for diamond earrings. These settings showcase the diamonds at their best and provide plenty of sparkle. The finish is both classic and minimalistic in appearance.
A martini setting is also a fairly popular setting, this style typically has three prongs holding the stone in place - mimicking the shape of a martini glass. As the shape becomes narrower at the bottom, this setting allows the diamond to sit closer to the earlobe.
Bezel-set studs are a great option for everyday wear as the diamond is surrounded by it’s metal setting for added security.
Choose a diamond shape
From the timeless round to the contemporary emerald cut, there are just as many options when it comes to diamond shape as there are when you are buying a ring. The shape you choose will ultimately depend on personal taste, although it is a good idea to note that it can also affect the price. For example, if you are searching for a design that will never go out of style then a round shaped diamond is a good option, for something a little fancier you may want to consider a marquise cut.
Choose a metal type
Most people will have a preference on metal type when buying jewellery and your selection should be based on personal taste. From elegant white gold and durable platinum to the beautiful and fashion-forward rose gold, there are many finishes to choose from. Those with particularly sensitive skin may wish to opt for platinum for their diamond earrings as it is a hypoallergenic metal.
The type of metal you choose will also have an effect on the price you pay for your diamond studs, for example platinum is more expensive than white gold, so it is a good idea to bear this in mind when you are looking to make a purchase.
SHOP DIAMOND STUDS