Diamonds are a beautiful fashion accessory for both men and women. Unfortunately, the cost of diamond jewelry and watches can be as expensive as the piece is beautiful. Here are tips on where to buy diamonds at the best price.

If you are looking for diamonds that are in antique settings, then check estate sales. You might have to register in advance and definitely be prepared to pay by cash or certified check. There can be some really good bargains because many times the heirs do not want to pay appraisal fees for many pieces of jewelry and simply guess at the market value of each diamond. Other times the heirs just want to convert everything into cash and really don't care about the value as long as the offer seems reasonable. Take a good magnifying glass with you to inspect the diamonds for cracks and other flaws. So keep estate sales on your list of possible places to buy diamonds at the best price.

If you are looking to buy diamond jewelry in more modern settings, then several options are open to you. Many jewelry stores are struggling and going out of business. Go the the store on the last day of business when many pieces will be marked at 70%-90% off the original selling price. This was probably the actual cost to the jeweler so he will be getting his money back and you will be buying a lovely diamond at the best price.

Another place to buy diamonds in a wide variety of settings is at auctions. Make sure that the auction house hosting the sale is reputable and that they have had an in-house jewelery expert certify that the diamonds are genuine. Decide ahead of time which diamonds you will be bidding on and how much you are willing to pay. Then be careful not to get caught up in a bidding war with someone trying to raise the price. Walk away from the deal rather than pay too much. There are many beautiful pieces of diamond jewelry for sale so keep looking at different auctions until you are able to buy the diamonds that you want at the best price.

It is also possible to buy diamonds on the internet. Many brick and mortar jewelry stores also have internet sites. Additionally, well known department stores such as Macy's, Sears, and JC Penney also sell jewelry online. Many times these department stores have prices on their diamonds that rival the jewelry stores and they also allow the purchase to be placed on their own store credit card or an easy-pay plan.

It may take some patience to find the perfect diamond in the color, cut, and clarity that you want but the possible savings make the hunt worthwhile.