Beginner’s Guide to Diamond Clarity, Cut, Carat & Colour Buying a diamond for the first time? Understanding the 4Cs — Cut, Colour, Clarity, and Carat — is the key to finding the right stone for your style and budget. In this beginner-friendly guide, we explain each of these characteristics in simple terms, so you can shop confidently at Pookie Jewellers. 💎 Cut: The Sparkle Factor Cut refers to how well a diamond has been shaped and faceted. It directly affects how the stone reflects light and sparkles. Excellent/Ideal Cut – Maximum brilliance and fire Good Cut – Bright and sparkly, but not top-tier Poor Cut – Dull appearance, less light return The cut is the most important “C” — even more than carat or clarity when it comes to beauty. 🎨 Colour: From D to Z Diamond colour is graded on a scale from D (colourless) to Z (light yellow/brown). D–F: Colourless (most valuable) G–J: Near colourless (excellent value) K–Z: Noticeable warmth or tint Many shoppers choose G–H grades for a balance between quality and price — especially when set in white gold or platinum. 🔬 Clarity: Flawless or Slightly Included? Clarity measures how free a diamond is from internal (inclusions) or external (blemishes) marks. FL/IF: Flawless or internally flawless VVS1–VVS2: Very, very slightly included VS1–VS2: Very slightly included (great value!) SI1–SI2: Slightly included (eye-clean in many cases) Most buyers choose VS or SI for a brilliant look at a better price. ⚖️ Carat: The Size of the Stone Carat is the weight of the diamond. Larger carat = larger diamond, but remember that cut and proportions impact how big it appears. 1 carat = 0.2 grams Most engagement rings range from 0.50ct to 2ct Well-cut 0.90ct can look like 1ct but cost less 📝 Quick Summary: Diamond 4Cs Cut – Affects sparkle most Colour – D to Z grading (D is best) Clarity – Fewer inclusions = better quality Carat – Size/weight of the stone Understanding the 4Cs helps you compare diamonds and find the best fit for your style and budget. 💖 Shop Certified Diamonds at Pookie Jewellers We handpick each of our diamonds for beauty, value, and ethical sourcing. Whether you prefer a natural or lab-grown diamond, we’ve got the perfect sparkle for you. Explore Engagement Rings | Lab-Grown Diamonds 🙋‍♀️ FAQs Which C is most important?Cut — it directly affects sparkle and overall beauty. What’s the best clarity to choose?VS1 or SI1 offer great looks without the high price of flawless diamonds. Do all diamonds come with certificates?Yes, all our diamonds come with certification (GIA, IGI, or similar). 📌 Ready to Choose Your Diamond? Shop Diamond Rings Design Your Own Speak to a Specialist

Natural Diamonds vs. Lab-Grown Diamonds: What’s the Difference? Thinking of buying a diamond but unsure whether to go for a natural or lab-grown stone? You’re not alone. Many customers are curious about the differences in price, appearance, durability, and ethics. In this guide, we break it all down for you — so you can make the best choice for your special piece. 💎 What Are Natural Diamonds? Natural diamonds are formed deep within the earth over billions of years. They’re mined from the earth, making each one incredibly unique. Many view them as rare and valuable — a true symbol of time and nature. 🧪 What Are Lab-Grown Diamonds? Lab-grown diamonds are created in high-tech labs that mimic the earth’s natural diamond-forming process. They are chemically, physically, and optically identical to natural diamonds — the only difference is their origin. 📊 Side-by-Side Comparison Feature Natural Diamond Lab-Grown Diamond Origin Formed in earth over billions of years Created in a lab in weeks Price Higher (due to rarity) More affordable Appearance Unique inclusions; natural charm Flawless or near-flawless Durability Extremely durable (10 on Mohs scale) Identical durability Ethics Ethically sourced options available More sustainable & conflict-free 🌍 Which One Should You Choose? It depends on your values and budget. If you're after timeless tradition and natural rarity, a natural diamond is a beautiful choice. If you’re more conscious about budget and sustainability, lab-grown diamonds offer stunning brilliance without compromise. 💖 Pookie Jewellers Offers Both At Pookie Jewellers, we offer ethically sourced natural diamonds and certified lab-grown diamonds. Whatever your preference, we’re here to help you find your dream piece. Explore Natural Diamond Rings | Shop Lab-Grown Diamond Rings 🙋‍♀️ FAQs Are lab-grown diamonds real?Yes! They are 100% real diamonds — same hardness, brilliance, and structure. Can you tell the difference by looking?Not without advanced equipment. To the naked eye, they’re identical. Are lab diamonds better for the environment?Generally, yes. They require less land and water than mining, and produce fewer emissions. 🔎 Ready to Make Your Choice? Shop Natural Diamonds Shop Lab-Grown Diamonds Contact Our Experts

How to Choose the Perfect Engagement Ring? Choosing the perfect engagement ring is a big moment — whether you’re planning a surprise proposal or shopping together. With so many designs, stones, and settings available, finding the one can feel overwhelming. Don’t worry — we’ve put together a simple guide to help you make the best choice. 💎 Understand the 4Cs: Cut, Colour, Clarity & Carat When it comes to diamonds, these four factors define beauty and value: Cut – Impacts sparkle. Round brilliant cuts are timeless, while oval or emerald cuts feel more modern. Colour – Ranges from colourless (D) to tinted (Z). The closer to D, the whiter the stone. Clarity – Measures internal flaws. VS1 or VS2 are great for clarity without breaking the bank. Carat – Weight of the stone. Bigger isn’t always better – find the right balance. 💷 Know Your Budget Engagement rings come in all price ranges. Decide how much you're comfortable spending and explore options that offer maximum brilliance for your budget. Moissanite and lab-grown diamonds are amazing alternatives to natural diamonds — more affordable and just as beautiful. Browse Moissanite Rings | Lab-Grown Diamond Collection 🔷 Pick the Right Stone Type Natural Diamonds – Classic and traditional Lab-Grown Diamonds – Ethical and eco-friendly Moissanite – Super sparkly and budget-friendly Gemstones – Sapphires, emeralds, moss agate, and more for a unique touch 🔗 Choose the Right Metal Metals can dramatically change the ring’s appearance and durability: White Gold – Sleek and modern Yellow Gold – Warm and classic Platinum – Strong and hypoallergenic Rose Gold – Romantic and trendy Shop Engagement Rings by Metal 📏 Understand Ring Sizes in the UK Ring sizing is essential for comfort. If you’re shopping secretly, borrow one of their rings or use our printable ring sizer. View UK Ring Size Guide 🎨 Should You Custom Design Your Ring? A custom engagement ring makes the proposal even more meaningful. At Pookie Jewellers, we offer bespoke designs tailored to your love story. Choose your stone, setting, and style — we’ll bring it to life. Start Your Custom Ring Design 🛍️ Where to Buy: Online vs In-Store Buying online can be just as safe as in-store when done right: Look for certifications and reviews Check return policies (Pookie offers 21-day returns!) Make sure images are clear and detailed Read Customer Reviews | Worldwide Shipping Info 💖 Why Choose Pookie Jewellers? At Pookie Jewellers, we’re passionate about timeless designs, ethical sourcing, and making special moments sparkle. Whether you want something classic or completely one-of-a-kind, we’re here to help you find the one. 🙋‍♀️ FAQs How much should I spend on an engagement ring?Spend what feels right for you — there’s no set rule anymore. Quality and meaning matter more than price. Is moissanite a good alternative to diamonds?Yes! Moissanite is brilliant, durable, and more affordable — a great option for modern couples. Do you ship internationally?Absolutely! We offer worldwide shipping on all our jewellery. ✅ Ready to find the perfect ring? Browse Engagement Rings Design Your Own Ring Contact Us