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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.
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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