The Jouwell Journal
Know your diamond before you buy it.
Certificates, the 4Cs, shapes and fair prices, explained simply by a gemologist with 40 years grading diamonds.
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Where to buy a diamond in Canada without overpaying
Thousands of stones, prices in US dollars, surprise fees at the door. Here's how to buy a diamond in Canada with confidence.
October 28, 2026
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What does a 1-carat lab-grown diamond cost in Canada?
A fair price range in 2026, and the three specs that move the price most.
October 28, 2026
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What size diamond can I get for $2,000?
What $1,000, $2,000 and $3,000 can buy, and where to spend first.
October 28, 2026
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How to read a diamond certificate
Carat, colour, clarity, cut, measurements, fluorescence: what each line on a certificate means, in plain words.
October 28, 2026
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GIA, IGI or HRD: which report should you trust?
Three respected labs, three report styles. What each one does well.
October 28, 2026
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Buy your diamond first, set it later
Many Canadians choose the stone online, then have a jeweller set it. Here's how to do it step by step.
October 28, 2026
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Duties and taxes on a diamond from a US website
The price on a US site is rarely the price you pay. What can be added at your door, and why.
October 28, 2026
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Fluorescence: should you worry?
Usually no. When fluorescence matters, and when it doesn't.
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Oval diamonds: ratio and the bow-tie
The fastest-rising shape in Canada. How to pick an oval that sparkles from end to end.
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Round brilliant: the classic for a reason
The most sparkle of any shape, and the only one with a full cut grade.
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Emerald cut: the hall of mirrors
Elegant, calm flashes of light, and a cut that hides nothing.
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