That's a sad story about your diamond breaking. However, it happens when buying a diamond with inclusions. Too often people buy diamonds without knowing what they are purchasing. This is so important to educate yourself and shop only with a trusted GIA professional jeweler in your area who will stand behind his/her stones.
I would never buy a diamond from a chain store or big box store. Take classes in diamonds and colored stones. Ask questions. Don't assume all stones are the same. Like you, my dad also had a large, flashy stone. But it had an inclusion. He hit it while changing a flat tire. Like yours, it also broke. Years ago, people didn't know to buy for quality. He bought it for sparkle and size. It was a lesson well learned.
He taught us to be picky about the stones we want. Ask for VVS (very, very slight) . . . never settle for VSI which means very slight inclusions. The range of SI is often sold - do NOT touch them! A knowledgeable jeweler will educate anyone buying a diamond and show you the difference. He/she will compare two or three stones under a microscope for you to view and inspect. The difference is amazing!
Same goes for the color of the stones. D is, of course the best money will buy. It is also out of most price ranges. Consider E through G if possible. These stones will disperse the most vivid brightness. I have inherited a couple of H stones, which are pretty but do not sparkle as well.
Be sure to ask about the girdle (seriously!) of the stone. Some stones are too thick; others too thin. Ask about the pavillion. Ask about the dimensions. The cutting of the stone makes a huge difference in the fire and brilliance given off by the stone . . . espeically depending upon the cut (round, princess, oval, etc.)
In short, the jeweler must be able to provide a full GIA appraisal listing a "map" of all feathers, inclusions, or unique marks to your stone. Each stone is like a fingerprint. The appraisal helps to identify the stone if lost or stolen. Many already have a SN included on the stone. Appraisals should be done peridically for insurance reasons and to update the stone for possible nicks or chips along the edges (if set with only four prongs).
This is a very short tutorial. Go to the library and read about diamonds if you need in-depth information. There is a wealth of information! Once you begin, you will be hooked! PS: Information on-line is OK, but not as in-depth as necessary when purchasing a quality stone. It's your money. Most of the information on-line is posted by chain store jewelers.
I still love a real diamond. Can spot a Diamonique and other synthics a mile away. Once you've taken a few classes and/or looked through a loupe, you know the real deal. Mine have been gifts for special occasions, as well as inherited pieces. Not anything I purchase on whim or as investments.
Money screams; wealth whispers.
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