We try to simplify the diamond buying decision-making process for you. Buying a diamond is one of the most significant purchases you'll ever make, and at Grissom's we believe an educated customer makes the best decision. Here is how we approach helping you choose the right stone.
Start With Your Budget
Before evaluating specific stones, establish a realistic budget. Once we know your range, we can show you the best diamonds available at that price point and help you understand what trade-offs to consider across the 4 C's — Cut, Color, Clarity, and Carat Weight.
Prioritize Cut Above All Else
Of all the 4 C's, cut has the most impact on a diamond's visual beauty. A well-cut diamond will sparkle brilliantly even at a lower color or clarity grade. We always recommend prioritizing an Excellent or Very Good cut grade before making trade-offs elsewhere.
See the Diamond in Person
Diamonds — and stones in general — need to be shown and explained in person. Many diamonds have good-looking laboratory reports but don't look that good in person. We call these "internet diamonds." At Grissom's, we study every stone under multiple light sources and under 10x magnification before recommending it. We give our customers the same buying experience professional diamond dealers use.
Look at Loose Stones
Most of our diamonds are sold loose, and for good reason: it is much harder to accurately evaluate color and clarity when a diamond is already mounted. A stone set in a ring can appear several color grades better than it actually is. Buying loose lets you see exactly what you're getting, then we drop it into the mounting of your choice.
Consider Shape as a Personal Choice
There is no "best" shape — round brilliant cuts maximize sparkle through their faceting, but fancy shapes (oval, cushion, pear, emerald, princess, etc.) offer unique beauty and can often deliver more visible size per carat. The right shape is whichever one you will love wearing every day.
Ask About Certification
Every significant diamond should come with a grading report from a recognized laboratory such as the GIA, AGS, or GCAL. This report independently verifies the diamond's 4 C grades. See our Lab Certification page for more detail on what different labs mean for your purchase.
Take Your Time
There is no pressure at Grissom's. We want you to feel fully confident in your choice. Visit our Fort Worth showroom, handle the stones, ask every question you have, and we will guide you to the perfect diamond for your needs and budget.