How to Buy a Diamond in Northern California

Buying a diamond should feel calm, clear, and personal. At Lauren O Jewels in Petaluma, we combine education with hands-on comparison so you can see real brilliance—not just read grading numbers. With over 65 years of combined experience, Lauren and Terry O’Sullivan draw on relationships with diamond wholesalers in New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles to bring clients the best stones available at every budget.

Step 1: Education First

Your first consultation, usually 40–60 minutes, focuses on clarity and confidence. We walk through the 4 Cs—cut, color, clarity, and carat—and explain how each affects sparkle, proportion, and value. You’ll leave understanding exactly what you’re seeing. This foundation is part of what makes our diamond education and sourcing process unique.

Step 2: See Stones Side-by-Side

We curate a selection of natural diamonds tailored to your preferences, then review them under microscopes and daylight lamps. Seeing stones side-by-side reveals subtle differences in color and cut quality that grading alone can’t capture.

Some clients also explore colored center stones during this step. If you’re curious about sapphires or alternative gems, our Custom Sapphire Sourcing offers the same one-on-one guidance.

Step 3: Compare Value—Not Just Carat

Two diamonds with the same weight can look very different in size and sparkle depending on cut and symmetry. We show you how to spot true quality beyond numbers and guide you toward the stone that maximizes both brilliance and value.

Step 4: Choose with Confidence

Most clients meet with us a few times before selecting their diamond. Once chosen, we move into our Custom Engagement Rings process. CAD renderings let you visualize your design from every angle before we craft it in gold or platinum.

At Lauren O Jewels, the diamond buying experience is collaborative, transparent, and designed to help you make an informed, joyful choice.