Quick and Easy Buying Guide
Carat weight: 1 carat = 200 milligrams = 6.5 mm diameter. Doubling weight doesn't double diameter.
Diamond clarity: FL/IF/VVS/VS = super expensive, near perfect. SI = best value if you can check a photo for obvious inclusions (defects).
Color: D-G = colorless, expensive, only if you have money to burn. H-J = best value. Can go lower in gold metal settings than white metal.
Cut: Better cut ratings let more light into a diamond, making it sparkle more. Very important property, don't skimp here.
Set a budget and minimum cut (Premium). Go J color for gold and I/H for white metals. Go searching for SI1/SI2 clarity diamonds at James Allen. Pick a diamond with small/no inclusions. Choose a ring setting and buy it risk-free (60-day returns).
Princess Shape, 1.61 Carat Diamond Size on Hand
This page gives you an idea of how large a 1.61 carat size princess shape stone will look when seen on a typical hand of a woman. A princess shape stone with a carat weight of 1.61 is typically about 7.0 mm long on a side, although this can depend on the depth of the cut.
If you have got a ring in your possession and you know the size, use it to compare with the US size six ring shown in the image on this page - this will help you get a better idea of the diamond size shown in the photo.
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Fingers can be all different sizes, which should influence your decision regarding diamond size and shape. Don't stress if diamonds and the dollars involved are getting you down - because the diamond will appear larger on her hand, you may not need to spend as much to get your desired effect.
