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The 4C’s
CARAT
A diamond’s weight is measured in what is known as a ‘carat’, which is a small
unit of measurement equal to 200 milligrams. Carat is not a measure of a diamond’s
size, but rather a measure of a diamond’s weight. One carat can also be divided
in 100 points. A .75 carat diamond is the same as 75 points or 3/4 carat diamond.
Because larger diamonds are found less frequently in nature, they are more valuable.
Therefore, a 1 carat diamond will cost more than twice a 1/2 carat diamond, assuming
other characteristics are similar. The most important thing to remember when it
comes to a diamond’s carat weight is that it is not the only factor that determines
a diamond’s value. The diagram to the right shows the size of various carat weights
of a diamond in relation to each other.
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CLARITY
Refers to the presence of inclusions in a diamond. Inclusions are
natural identifying characteristics such as minerals or fractures, that appear while
diamonds are being formed. They may look like tiny crystals, pin points, clouds
or feathers. Inclusions are usually viewed at 10x magnification. The position of
inclusions can greatly affect the value of a diamond. Some inclusions can be hidden
by a mounting, thus having little effect on the beauty of a diamond. An inclusion
in the middle or top of a diamond could impact the dispersion of light, making the
diamond less brilliant. Inclusions are ranked on a scale of perfection known as
the clarity scale. The scale ranges from F (Flawless) to I (Included) and is based
on the visibility of inclusions at 10X magnification.
COLOR
Refers to the degree to which a diamond is colorless. The farther
from colorless that a diamond's grade is, the less rare and therefore less valuable
it is. Diamonds are graded on a color scale established by the Gemological Institute
of America (GIA), which ranges from D (Colorless) to Z. Icy winter whites (D-I)
look stunning in white gold or platinum. Warmer colored diamonds (J-Z) are more
desirable when set in yellow gold. Color differences can be very subtle and grading
is done under controlled lighting and compared against a ‘master’ for accuracy.
This color chart is representative of the color grades of a diamond.
CUT
Refers to the angles and proportions of a diamond. The cut of a
diamond refers to the exact proportions, quality of polish and the arrangement of
a diamond's facets. While nature determines a diamond's clarity, carat weight and
color, the hand of a master craftsman is necessary to release the diamonds’ fire
and sparkle. A diamond has facets that allow light to enter it, become refracted,
and exit in a rainbow of colors. As illustrated below, when a diamond is cut to
ideal proportions, is carefully polished and has exact symmetry, light will then
reflect from one facet to another and disperse through the top of the stone, resulting
in a display of brilliance and fire. Diamonds that are cut too deep or too shallow,
lose or leak light through the side or bottom, resulting in less brilliance, fire,
scintillation and value. The cut can affect the value of a diamond by up to 35%!
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