There are a number of contributing factors to what makes a diamond unique. Some of them are more important than others. I like to rate their Importance by their visual impact or naked eye factor.

Shape. The shape of the diamond is the most noticeable characteristic of the diamond. This is purely a matter of personal taste. Although rounds are the most popular and exude the most sparkle there are other beautiful shapes that might suit your taste better Click here to compare Shapes

Measurements. Measurements? Yes. This is the second most obvious feature of a diamond. These are the actual physical measurements from end to end top to bottom. On Fancy Shaped Diamonds (other than round) the shape and look of the diamond will be reflected in the measurements. Click here to compare ratios. Obviously the size of the diamond makes the first impression. Although Carat Weight makes a bigger psychological ( and economic) impression it does not make a visible impression. Read on and you'll see why.

Depth/Table (cut). Cut is determined by the Depth and Table percentages. Without going into the physics of exactly how this works The sparkle and fire that the diamond gives out is caused by the light that enters from the top that reflects off the facets and back out the top. Click here to see my cut classifications Cuts

Color. The reason why I pick color over clarity is the same as the answer I give when someone inquires as to what is more important color or clarity. Now before I continue let me add that I'm referring to diamonds that have a clarity rating of at least SI and are eye clean. Color is something always visible to the naked eye. Now generally the difference 1 or 2 color grades off (ie D-E-F) will be very difficult to discern, but it nonetheless is different. On the other hand diamonds that have a clarity of VS2 (and at times SI1-2) and higher will be eye clean and the inclusions will only be visible with the aid of a loupe (magnifying glass). Now I'm willing to bet that of all the people that will be viewing this diamond in your lifetime less that 1 percent of 1 percent will be viewing it through a loupe which is why color is higher on my list. Click here to read more about Color

Clarity. Clarity will rarely be a factor to the naked eye unless the stone is at the lower end of the clarity scale. From VVS1 to VS1 the imperfections will be tiny. They will be almost impossible to view even under a 10x loupe. VS2 will 95% of the time be eye clean. SI1 75% and SI2 about 40%. It all depends on the nature of the inclusion (black, white etc..) ,location of the inclusion (under the table, off to the side etc..) and how deep in the diamond it is. The Certificate is helpful in determining the location and at times the nature of the imperfection but it's best to get an honest opinion from someone with the diamonds on hand (like me :)).

Girdle. The girdle thickness will generally not register anything with you unless it's Very Thick- Extremely Thick. At which point you should be able to notice that the girdle is a bit thick. This also means that precious carat points are being stored in the girdle instead of on top where it can be seen.

Fluorescence. If you're worried about the "naked eye" effect of fluorescence on your diamond, you have nothing to worry about with Faint or Medium Blue. With Strong Blue and Very Strong Blue the fluorescence might affect the transparency of the diamond and give it a milky appearance. Although most are quite beautiful and you can get some really good bargains as they are generally cheaper.

Polish/Symmetry. Stay away from Poor or Fair. Good and up will all look the same to you.

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