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Choosing a Diamond
Diamonds are graded for certification by laboratories using grading criteria.
Four of Diamonds are graded for certification by laboratories using grading
criteria. Four of these criteria are critical to understand when
making a diamond purchase or investment. Known as the “Four C’s” these criteria
are: color, cut, clarity and carat.
Color is the result of the composition of a diamond and it does not change. When
a jeweler is describing the color of a diamond they are referring to the
presence or absence of color in white diamonds. Because a diamond with no color
allows maximum light to pass through, colorless diamonds are preferred for their
sparkle. these criteria are critical to understand when making a diamond
purchase or investment.
Known as the “Four C’s” these criteria are: color, cut, clarity and carat.
Color is the result of the composition of a diamond and it does not change. When
a jeweler is describing the color of a diamond they are referring to the
presence or absence of color in white diamonds. Because a diamond with no color
allows maximum light to pass through, colorless diamonds are preferred for their
sparkle.
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Cut refers to a diamonds reflective quality. Most diamonds are cut with 58
facets. The brilliance of diamonds is heavily dependent on the cut. The
different angles and the finish of a diamond determine its ability to reflect
light and cause its brilliance and fire. Remember that the cut of a diamond can
have an impact on its durability as well as its beauty. Some cutting faults can
make a diamond prone to breakage. A diamond
that is cut too thin can also cause light to leak out of the back and the
diamond will lose some of the sparkle and appear not to shine. So, as you can
see the Cut is probably the most important of the Four C’s.
During the formation process, inner flaws, or inclusions occur in most diamonds.
The number and size of these inclusions determine what is referred to as the
clarity of a diamond. Diamonds that are clear
create more brilliance and therefore are rarer and highly priced. To be
considered “flawless”, a diamond must have no surface or internal imperfections
visible upon being viewed by a skilled diamond grader using
10 power magnifications.
Carat is the unit of weight by which diamonds are
measured. One carat is equal to 200 milligrams. A carat is divided into 100
segments called points. 150 points would equal one and a half carats.
When you go to the store to make that all important diamond purchase, do not be
shy! Ask questions, get the answers needed to make an informed purchase.
Shopping for certified diamonds enables you to make an
informed selection. Knowing the “four C’s” allows you to comparison shop and
purchase the best diamond at a fair price. But, before making a purchase, shop
around and decide what shapes and styles really appeal to you.
Enjoy your diamond for years to come!
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