When you are planning to purchase a diamond it is important that you know as much as possible on how diamonds are classified.
Shape
First, decide on the shape of the diamond that is unique to you. A round diamond is the most popular shape due to its brilliance elicited by the precisely formulated cut in facets. A heart shape is also an attractive choice for the hopelessly romantic couple.
The 4 C's
Diamonds are graded by four characteristics: cut, carat, clarity, and color. All four of these properties determine how much a diamond is worth.
Cut
A diamond's cut refers to its proportions rather than its shape. It is regarded as the most important factor to consider among all the dimensions of a diamond because the cut determines its brilliance and luster. When looking at a diamond, if it doesn't catch your eyes or flash in the light, it's probably not well cut. A cut grade of Excellent/Very Good would ensure the diamond's optimum proportions to bring out the fire and beauty.
Carat
A diamond's weight is measured in carats and one carat equals 0.20 grams. There are 100 points to a carat, for example, a 50 point diamond is 1/2 a carat. Diamond prices rise exponentially with carat weight. Thus, a 0.90 carat diamond should be substantially less expensive than a 1.0 carat diamond.
Clarity
The clarity of a diamond is determined by the amount and location of flaws in the diamond when viewed under 10x power magnification. GIA uses a scale ranging from pure (flawless) to heavily included (I-3) to measure the clarity. The flaws (inclusions) can interfere with the light passing through the diamond. Therefore, the fewer the inclusions, the less the distractions, the more beautiful the diamond will be.
Color
Diamond colors are graded totally colorless to light yellow by a scale developed by the GIA which ranges from D to Z. D meaning exceptionally white and beyond Z is the range where the diamond's color is vivid and rich, called "fancy colors". The best color for a diamond is colorless because it allows light to pass through it like a prism, resulting in the light being dispersed in the color of a rainbow.
^ back to top
|
