Learn the Traits
People have been drawn to diamonds for hundreds of years. They’re beautiful, rare and mesmerizing. But, there’s more to a diamond than meets the eye. There are several characteristics, called the 4 C’s, that are used to evaluate and determine the value of these precious stones. The cut, color, clarity and carat weight contribute to the overall brilliance of a diamond, and can help us better understand how to purchase a diamond based on our preferences. Learn more about the 4 C’s and get a step closer to being an expert on the world’s most popular mineral!
Cut
The cut of a diamond plays a pivotal role in revealing its true beauty. While often mistaken for the diamond's shape, the cut refers to the quality of the diamond's proportions, symmetry and overall craftsmanship. A well-cut diamond allows light to reflect internally, and then disperse through the crown, resulting in an exquisite display of brilliance, fire and scintillation.
Various factors are considered when evaluating the cut of a diamond, including its depth, table percentage, polish and symmetry. The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) grades diamond cuts on a scale ranging from Excellent to Poor. Opting for a well-cut diamond ensures maximum light performance and showcases the stone's true potential.
Color
Diamonds come in a wide spectrum of colors, ranging from colorless to various shades of yellow and brown. The GIA uses a letter grading system to classify diamond colors, starting from D (colorless) to Z (light yellow or brown). Colorless diamonds (D-F) are highly sought after due to their exceptional rarity and ability to reflect light in its purest form.
It's worth noting that fancy color diamonds exist outside the traditional color scale, showcasing exquisite hues like blue, pink and yellow. These unique diamonds are prized for their rarity and can command high prices.
Clarity
Diamonds, formed deep within the Earth's crust, often bear unique birthmarks known as inclusions and blemishes. Clarity refers to the presence of these imperfections and their impact on the diamond's overall appearance. The GIA grades diamond clarity on a scale ranging from Flawless (no inclusions or blemishes visible under 10x magnification) to Included (inclusions visible to the naked eye).
Most inclusions are invisible to the naked eye and do not affect the diamond's beauty or structural integrity. However, clarity enhanced diamonds are rarer and typically command higher prices. Ultimately, the degree of clarity should be based on personal preference, budget and the desired visual impact of the diamond.
Carat Weight
Carat weight measures the size of a diamond. One carat is equivalent to 200 milligrams, and diamonds are weighed with remarkable precision. It's essential to note that carat weight does not solely determine a diamond's value or appeal. Other factors, such as the cut, color and clarity, significantly contribute to a diamond's overall desirability and price.
Find Your Diamond at Graham Jewelers
Understanding the 4 C's of diamonds is crucial before purchasing these precious stones.
Each C plays a significant role in determining a diamond's beauty, rarity and value. Still need help understanding their characteristics? Our diamond experts at Graham Jewelers are here to help you on your diamond-buying journey. Visit us in store or give us a call to learn more and find your perfect diamond today!
If you want to learn more click here
People have been drawn to diamonds for hundreds of years. They’re beautiful, rare and mesmerizing. But, there’s more to a diamond than meets the eye. There are several characteristics, called the 4 C’s, that are used to evaluate and determine the value of these precious stones. The cut, color, clarity and carat weight contribute to the overall brilliance of a diamond, and can help us better understand how to purchase a diamond based on our preferences. Learn more about the 4 C’s and get a step closer to being an expert on the world’s most popular mineral!
Cut
The cut of a diamond plays a pivotal role in revealing its true beauty. While often mistaken for the diamond's shape, the cut refers to the quality of the diamond's proportions, symmetry and overall craftsmanship. A well-cut diamond allows light to reflect internally, and then disperse through the crown, resulting in an exquisite display of brilliance, fire and scintillation.
Various factors are considered when evaluating the cut of a diamond, including its depth, table percentage, polish and symmetry. The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) grades diamond cuts on a scale ranging from Excellent to Poor. Opting for a well-cut diamond ensures maximum light performance and showcases the stone's true potential.
Color
Diamonds come in a wide spectrum of colors, ranging from colorless to various shades of yellow and brown. The GIA uses a letter grading system to classify diamond colors, starting from D (colorless) to Z (light yellow or brown). Colorless diamonds (D-F) are highly sought after due to their exceptional rarity and ability to reflect light in its purest form.
It's worth noting that fancy color diamonds exist outside the traditional color scale, showcasing exquisite hues like blue, pink and yellow. These unique diamonds are prized for their rarity and can command high prices.
Clarity
Diamonds, formed deep within the Earth's crust, often bear unique birthmarks known as inclusions and blemishes. Clarity refers to the presence of these imperfections and their impact on the diamond's overall appearance. The GIA grades diamond clarity on a scale ranging from Flawless (no inclusions or blemishes visible under 10x magnification) to Included (inclusions visible to the naked eye).
Most inclusions are invisible to the naked eye and do not affect the diamond's beauty or structural integrity. However, clarity enhanced diamonds are rarer and typically command higher prices. Ultimately, the degree of clarity should be based on personal preference, budget and the desired visual impact of the diamond.
Carat Weight
Carat weight measures the size of a diamond. One carat is equivalent to 200 milligrams, and diamonds are weighed with remarkable precision. It's essential to note that carat weight does not solely determine a diamond's value or appeal. Other factors, such as the cut, color and clarity, significantly contribute to a diamond's overall desirability and price.
Find Your Diamond at Graham Jewelers
Understanding the 4 C's of diamonds is crucial before purchasing these precious stones.
Each C plays a significant role in determining a diamond's beauty, rarity and value. Still need help understanding their characteristics? Our diamond experts at Graham Jewelers are here to help you on your diamond-buying journey. Visit us in store or give us a call to learn more and find your perfect diamond today!
If you want to learn more click here