How Aurelion Selects Your Diamond

When you order an Aurelion engagement ring, you choose the design, metal colour, diamond shape, carat category and ring size.

Aurelion then selects the strongest suitable centre diamond available within our stated D–E colour and VVS clarity standard.

You do not need to choose between D and E colour or between VVS1 and VVS2 clarity. Aurelion makes that decision by comparing the complete combination of grading, dimensions, proportions, appearance and value.

This does not mean choosing the first diamond that meets the required specification. Diamonds with very similar grading reports can differ in visible size, outline, proportions and visual character.

Our objective is to select the diamond that creates the strongest finished ring — not simply the diamond with the most impressive collection of letters and numbers.

What Do You Choose?

You remain in control of the characteristics that define the overall design and presence of your ring.

Depending on the selected product, you choose:

• the ring design;
• white, yellow or rose gold;
• the diamond shape;
• the carat category;
• the ring size.

The quality standard is already defined by Aurelion. Our core lab-grown engagement ring collection uses D–E colour and VVS clarity.

Aurelion determines whether the strongest suitable diamond is D or E colour and whether it is VVS1 or VVS2 clarity.

This keeps the ordering process clear and prevents you from having to compare hundreds of individual diamonds without knowing which technical differences will actually be visible in the finished ring.

What Does Aurelion Select?

Within the agreed design, shape, carat category and quality standard, Aurelion compares suitable centre-diamond candidates.

The assessment can include:

• diamond origin;
• grading laboratory;
• shape and cutting style;
• carat weight;
• visible dimensions;
• colour grade within the D–E range;
• clarity grade within the VVS range;
• cut information;
• polish and symmetry;
• proportions;
• outline and overall balance;
• value within the ordered category.

The exact considerations depend on the diamond shape. A round brilliant is assessed differently from an oval, cushion or emerald-cut diamond because each shape has its own strengths and possible weaknesses.

The Grading Report Is the Starting Point

An independent grading report provides essential information about an individual diamond.

Depending on the report, it can record:

• whether the diamond is natural or laboratory-grown;
• its report number;
• shape and cutting style;
• measurements;
• carat weight;
• colour grade;
• clarity grade;
• cut grade where applicable;
• polish;
• symmetry;
• fluorescence;
• proportion information.

This information is important, but it does not describe every aspect of how a diamond will appear in a finished ring.

Two diamonds can carry the same principal grades and still differ in:

• visible size;
• outline;
• facet pattern;
• light distribution;
• the position of inclusions;
• overall visual balance.

For that reason, Aurelion does not treat the grading report as the entire buying decision.

Why the Highest Grade Is Not Automatically the Best Choice

A higher technical grade can be valuable, but every characteristic must be considered in relation to the complete diamond.

For example, D is technically the highest colour grade. However, an exceptionally proportioned E colour diamond may create a stronger finished ring than a less attractive D colour candidate.

The same principle applies to clarity. VVS1 is technically higher than VVS2, but both are exceptionally high clarity grades and should normally appear completely clean without magnification.

Aurelion therefore selects the strongest complete diamond rather than automatically choosing the highest individual colour or clarity grade.

How Aurelion Selects Colour

Aurelion’s core lab-grown engagement ring collection uses D–E colour.

Both grades belong to the highest colourless category and can provide a crisp, bright appearance.

The customer does not choose between D and E colour within the standard collection. Aurelion compares the suitable candidates and determines which diamond offers the strongest complete balance.

We do not automatically select D simply because it is the higher letter grade. An exceptional E colour diamond may offer stronger proportions, better visible dimensions or a more attractive overall result than another available D colour diamond.

The colour selection is considered together with:

• visible appearance;
• proportions;
• dimensions;
• clarity characteristics;
• shape and outline;
• overall balance;
• value within the ordered category.

The customer receives either D or E colour, according to which suitable diamond Aurelion determines will create the strongest finished ring.

How Aurelion Selects Clarity

Aurelion’s core lab-grown engagement ring collection uses VVS clarity.

The customer does not choose between VVS1 and VVS2 within the standard collection. Aurelion determines which diamond is the strongest suitable candidate.

VVS1 and VVS2 diamonds contain only minute inclusions that are difficult for trained graders to locate under magnification. Both grades should normally appear completely clean to the unaided eye.

We therefore do not automatically favour VVS1 solely because it is the higher technical grade.

When comparing suitable candidates, we also consider, where relevant:

• the position of the inclusions;
• the type and character of the inclusions;
• whether an inclusion is near the centre or edge;
• whether it is reflected by the facets;
• the shape of the diamond;
• the complete visual impression.

This is particularly relevant for step-cut diamonds such as emerald cuts, where the broad, open facets provide a clearer view into the stone.

Carat Weight Is Not the Same as Visible Size

Carat measures weight. It does not directly describe how large the diamond will appear from above.

Two diamonds weighing exactly 1.00 carat can have different visible dimensions because their weight is distributed differently.

A diamond with excessive depth or a very thick girdle may carry more weight below the visible surface. It can therefore reach the ordered carat category while appearing smaller than another candidate.

Aurelion considers:

• length and width;
• total depth;
• girdle thickness;
• shape-specific proportions;
• the relationship between visible size and light performance.

The widest-looking diamond is not automatically the best. A stone that has been cut too shallowly to maximise surface area may sacrifice brilliance, contrast and balance.

Why Proportions Matter

A diamond’s proportions influence how light travels through the stone and returns to the viewer.

Depending on the shape, relevant factors may include:

• table size;
• total depth;
• crown and pavilion relationships;
• girdle thickness;
• length-to-width ratio;
• symmetry;
• facet alignment.

Numbers alone cannot guarantee beauty, but they help identify diamonds that deserve closer consideration and candidates that may carry avoidable weaknesses.

Our aim is to avoid paying for hidden weight, weak proportions or an unattractive outline merely because the grading report contains the required headline grades.

Polish and Symmetry

Polish describes the quality of the diamond’s finished facet surfaces.

Symmetry considers how accurately the facets and overall shape align with one another.

Strong polish and symmetry support a clean, precise appearance. However, these grades still need to be viewed as part of the complete diamond.

An excellent symmetry grade does not automatically guarantee that every oval has an attractive outline or that every cushion has the preferred visual character.

Selecting a Round Brilliant Diamond

A round brilliant is designed to produce strong brilliance and balanced light return.

When comparing round brilliant candidates, Aurelion considers:

• cut information;
• visible diameter;
• table and depth relationships;
• polish and symmetry;
• overall balance;
• whether the diamond appears bright and lively.

A round brilliant should not be selected solely because it has the largest diameter. The relationship between visible size, proportions and light performance remains essential.

Selecting an Oval Diamond

Oval diamonds vary considerably in outline and personality.

Some are broad and softly rounded, while others are longer and narrower.

When comparing oval candidates, Aurelion considers:

• length-to-width ratio;
• outline and symmetry;
• visible dimensions;
• facet pattern;
• the degree of bow-tie effect;
• overall brilliance and balance.

A bow-tie is a darker area that can appear across the centre of an elongated brilliant-cut diamond.

A subtle bow-tie can be a normal part of an oval’s appearance. A strong and distracting dark band can reduce the beauty of the diamond and may be a reason to reject that candidate.

Selecting a Cushion Diamond

Cushion diamonds can be square, rectangular or elongated, with softly rounded corners.

Their facet patterns can create very different visual effects, even when the diamonds share similar grading specifications.

When comparing cushion candidates, Aurelion considers:

• outline;
• length-to-width ratio;
• corner shape;
• visible dimensions;
• depth;
• facet pattern;
• brightness and character.

Some cushion diamonds carry considerable weight in their depth. We therefore pay attention to whether the diamond offers appropriate visible presence for its carat category.

Selecting an Emerald-Cut Diamond

Emerald-cut diamonds use broad, open step facets rather than the intense scattered brilliance associated with round or oval diamonds.

Their appeal comes from clean geometry, long flashes and a refined hall-of-mirrors effect.

When comparing emerald-cut candidates, Aurelion considers:

• outline and corner shape;
• length-to-width ratio;
• visible dimensions;
• step-facet alignment;
• clarity characteristics;
• the balance of light and dark reflections;
• the overall openness of the stone.

Because emerald cuts provide a clearer view into the diamond, the position and character of inclusions deserve particular attention.

Why Two Similar Reports Can Produce Different Rings

Consider two diamonds that are both:

• 1.00 carat;
• D colour;
• VVS2 clarity;
• excellent polish;
• excellent symmetry.

One may still offer:

• better visible dimensions;
• a more attractive outline;
• stronger proportions;
• a less distracting bow-tie;
• a more balanced facet pattern;
• a better relationship between beauty and price.

The headline grades may be identical, but the finished visual result can be noticeably different.

This is why Aurelion uses a selection process rather than treating diamonds as interchangeable stock numbers.

What Can Cause Aurelion to Reject a Diamond?

A diamond may meet the basic D–E colour, VVS clarity and carat requirements and still not be the strongest suitable choice.

Possible reasons for rejection include:

• poor visible size for the weight;
• excessive depth;
• an unattractive or uneven outline;
• a strong and distracting bow-tie;
• weak or unbalanced light distribution;
• undesirable inclusion placement;
• poor value compared with another suitable candidate;
• inconsistency between available information and the grading report.

Rejecting a candidate does not necessarily mean that it is a defective diamond. It means another available diamond offers a stronger balance for the intended Aurelion ring.

Why Your Diamond May Be Slightly Larger

A diamond does not need to weigh exactly 1.00 carat to belong within the one-carat category.

Suitable candidates may weigh slightly above the ordered category, such as:

• 1.01 carat;
• 1.03 carat;
• 1.04 carat.

When the strongest suitable available diamond is slightly heavier than the ordered category, Aurelion does not charge an additional amount solely for that small difference.

This does not mean that every order automatically receives a heavier diamond. It means we do not reject the strongest available candidate simply because it exceeds the ordered category by a few hundredths of a carat.

Why Aurelion Does Not Offer an Endless Diamond Database

Large online diamond databases can give customers access to thousands of individual listings.

That amount of choice can appear attractive, but it often transfers the complete technical selection process to the customer.

The buyer is then expected to compare:

• measurements;
• percentages;
• grading reports;
• videos;
• inclusion diagrams;
• supplier information;
• prices;
• shape-specific risks.

Aurelion uses a curated approach instead.

You define the ring design, metal colour, diamond shape, carat category and ring size. Aurelion then compares suitable candidates and selects the exact colour and clarity combination within our stated D–E and VVS standard.

You choose the ring. Aurelion selects the diamond.

Can You Request a Specific Diamond?

Standard Aurelion engagement rings use our personal selection process. You choose the design, metal colour, diamond shape, carat category and ring size, while Aurelion determines the exact colour and clarity grade within the stated D–E and VVS standard.

Clients who require an exact individual specification or want to approve a particular diamond can request a separate personal-sourcing service.

This may include a specific:

• carat weight;
• colour grade;
• clarity grade;
• shape;
• length-to-width ratio;
• natural or laboratory-grown origin;
• budget;
• visual preference.

Personal sourcing falls outside the standard curated selection process. Availability, lead time and pricing depend on the requested combination of characteristics.

Personal sourcing may be particularly appropriate for:

• natural diamonds;
• larger centre stones;
• unusual shapes;
• specific grading requirements;
• bespoke ring designs.

What Happens After the Diamond Is Selected?

Once the centre diamond has been selected, it is matched with the ordered ring design, metal colour and ring size.

The jewellery then proceeds through the appropriate production and setting process.

The completed ring is checked before dispatch and prepared for tracked and insured delivery.

Depending on the selected product, the order may include:

• the finished Aurelion ring;
• an independent grading report where specified;
• Aurelion presentation packaging;
• relevant care and order documentation;
• insured delivery.

The Aurelion Selection Standard

Our core lab-grown engagement ring standard is built around:

• D–E colour selected by Aurelion;
• VVS1 or VVS2 clarity selected by Aurelion;
• independent grading where specified;
• solid 18K gold;
• specialist craftsmanship through Antwerp partners;
• personal centre-stone selection;
• tracked and insured delivery.

The grading report establishes the technical framework. The Aurelion selection process determines which suitable candidate creates the strongest finished ring.

Our Recommendation

Choose your preferred ring design, metal colour, diamond shape and carat category based on what you genuinely want to wear.

Do not worry about having to decide between D and E colour or between VVS1 and VVS2 clarity within the standard Aurelion collection.

Aurelion makes that selection by considering the complete combination of:

• appearance;
• dimensions;
• proportions;
• colour;
• clarity;
• shape-specific characteristics;
• value.

Our role is to make that comparison on your behalf and select the strongest suitable centre stone within the agreed Aurelion standard.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Choose My Exact Diamond?

Not within the standard Aurelion ordering process. You choose the ring design, metal colour, diamond shape, carat category and ring size. Aurelion selects the exact centre diamond within the stated D–E colour and VVS clarity standard.

Exact individual diamond approval may be available through separate personal sourcing.

Will I Receive an Independent Grading Report?

Where an independent grading report is included, this is stated on the relevant product page or order documentation. The report identifies the individual diamond and records its specifications.

Does Aurelion Always Select D Colour?

No. Aurelion selects either D or E colour according to which suitable candidate creates the strongest complete ring. Both grades fall within our premium colourless standard.

Can I Choose Between D and E Colour?

Not within the standard collection. Aurelion determines whether D or E colour offers the strongest complete result for the selected ring and carat category.

Does Aurelion Prefer VVS1 Over VVS2?

Not automatically. VVS1 is technically higher, but both VVS1 and VVS2 are exceptionally high clarity grades. Aurelion selects the strongest candidate based on the complete combination of clarity characteristics, proportions, shape, appearance and value.

Can I Choose Between VVS1 and VVS2?

Not within the standard collection. Aurelion determines which VVS1 or VVS2 diamond offers the strongest complete balance within the ordered category.

Will My 1.00 Carat Diamond Weigh Exactly 1.00 Carat?

Not necessarily. The selected diamond may weigh exactly 1.00 carat or slightly more. Where the strongest suitable candidate is only slightly heavier, Aurelion does not charge extra solely for that small difference.

Can Two Diamonds With the Same Grades Look Different?

Yes. Visible dimensions, outline, proportions, facet pattern and inclusion placement can differ even when the principal grades are identical.

Does Aurelion Physically Inspect Every Diamond?

The exact selection and verification process depends on the product, diamond, supplier and available documentation.

Aurelion assesses the relevant grading information, measurements and available visual and partner information before approving a suitable centre stone.

Can I Request a Natural Diamond?

Yes. Selected natural-diamond jewellery is available through The Vault, and specific natural diamonds can be sourced personally according to the requested shape, quality, size and budget.