The Diamond Guide: Selecting the Perfect Diamond

How to choose the perfect diamond? There are a host of factors to consider when buying a diamond. From the type of diamond, to the 4Cs – cut, colour, clarity and carat – the diamond shapes, certification and ethical diamond sourcing; our diamond guides shed light on the art of selecting your perfect diamond.

Loose Diamond

Why Choose a Diamond from Pragnell?

Every Pragnell diamond is hand selected by a Pragnell family member.

As a sixth-generation, family-owned British business with a rich and royal heritage, we have built strong and trusted relationships with renowned diamond cutting houses.

Our wealth of experience and education enables us to work with the cutters to identify diamonds that perform beyond the certification they have been given. Each diamond is assessed on its performance: a combination of three components, scintillation, fire and brilliance; these are what give the diamond its super sparkle.

By assessing each diamond in this way, we are able to select the best performing diamonds for the best value, savings which are then passed on to our customers.

Diamonds: The Four Cs

Cut, colour, clarity and carat: find out more about what they are and how they can help you choose your perfect diamond.

Diamond Cut

Cut

Defines the diamond’s symmetry and ability to reflect light.

Diamond colour

Colour

Refers to the natural hue or transparency of the stone.

Diamond clarity

Clarity

Refers to the overall visual appearance of the diamond.

Diamond carat

Carat

Signifies the weight of the diamond, rather than the size.

Certification

Every certified diamond comes with a unique report, which lists its carat weight and cut, colour and clarity grading, along with the precise measurements of that particular stone. The report includes a diagram of the diamond on which the size, shape and placement of any inclusions or blemishes are marked, along with information about the diamond’s polish, symmetry and fluorescence. This certificate is a guarantee that the stone is a natural diamond, and that it has been cut and polished in line with industry standards.

Diamonds can look the same on paper, but in reality, they can be quite different. At Pragnell, our gemmologists sift through thousands of diamonds, analysing each stone one at a time to find those whose quality and beauty reflect above and beyond their grading; the vast majority of our diamonds are certified by GIA, IGI or HRD.

Diamond Shapes

There are a variety of different shape diamonds and diamond cuts available; learn about the most popular styles to help you choose the perfect diamond for you.

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There are a variety of different shape diamonds and diamond cuts available; learn about the most popular styles to help you choose the perfect diamond for you.
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Ethical Diamond Sourcing

Ethically Sourced Diamonds

At Pragnell, all of our diamonds are responsibly and ethically sourced, and hand selected by our expert gemmologists.

Coloured Diamonds

Our Masterpieces showcase the rarest and most beautiful fancy jewels, including vivid pink and intense blue-green diamonds.

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Our Masterpieces showcase the rarest and most beautiful fancy jewels, including vivid pink and intense blue-green diamonds.
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Antique Diamonds

Antique Diamond Cuts

Humans have been perfecting the art of diamond cutting for centuries. Find out about the origins of our most popular diamond cuts.

Diamond Anatomy

Learn the terminology used when describing the different parts of a diamond.

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Learn the terminology used when describing the different parts of a diamond.
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Custom Cut Diamonds

Customising Diamond Cuts

Some of our most intricate jewellery designs require custom diamond cuts; each diamond is cut to fit a specific design.

View by Category

Explore a selection of pieces from across the Pragnell range​

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Falcon

Make an Appointment

Our expert consultants are on hand to guide you and answer any questions you may have, whether you book an appointment, or visit us to browse.

Visit one of our three jewellery showrooms and speak with one of our experts.

Alternatively, if you are unable to visit the showroom, you can book a virtual appointment. One of our experts will video call you to understand your requirements - you’ll receive our usual high standard of service, all from the comfort of your own home.

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