Gold is the usual choice for wedding bands. It is available in either white or yellow, and generally fourteen carat or eighteen carat gold is used. Platinum is often used for the prongs that hold the stones because it is the strongest metal used in rings. When choosing the diamond, there are four classifications. They are color, cut, clarity, and carat. When looking at the color, remember, the clearer the stone, the greater the value. Clear or colorless diamonds are usually referred to as perfect. Accuracy in the cut is also important. Diamonds are cut to maximize the brilliance through the crowns. An accurately cut diamond has brilliance and sparkle. Clarity is used to describe the degree of inclusions in a stone. An inclusion refers to any interior or exterior flaw in the stone. If there are many large and noticeable flaws, the value and beauty of the stone will be affected. Stones with few or no flaws are the most valuable. Carat refers to the weight of the diamond. Stones of equal quality increase in price as the carats increase. Color, cut, and clarity determine the price per carat. Carat weight determines the final price of the stone. For more information on diamonds and bands, contact a jewelry professional.
