Diamonds are forever, or so says popular culture. We all feel something when we look at a diamond: awe, love, a feeling of luxury and permanence. Diamonds are a status symbol, a symbol of eternal love – and an economic investment.
However sentimental a diamond might make us, ultimately choosing a diamond is also an economic choice which should be entered into with knowledge of the practical aspects of diamond quality. Choosing a diamond is more complicated than choosing a setting and style. Jewellers who specialize in diamonds and other diamond experts know that not all diamonds are created equal; some stones just shine a little brighter than the rest. So, what do the experts look for?
In the diamond world, there are four characteristics that are examined in a diamond.
The 4 C’s:
- Clarity
- Colour
- Carat Weight
- Cut
How is Clarity Evaluated?
Clarity is evaluated according to two characteristics: a diamond’s internal features, called inclusions, and surface irregularities, called blemishes. These two types of features are called clarity characteristics.
Examining a diamond’s characteristics affects price (generally a diamond with higher clarity has a correspondingly higher price). However, these characteristics also allow true diamonds to be separated from false diamonds, and clarity characteristics can allow individual diamonds to be identified. Note: Truly flawless diamonds are incredibly rare.
How is Colour Evaluated?
Diamonds come in many colours. Usually they range from colourless to yellow or light brown. Colourless diamonds represent the high end of the price scale. All diamonds are graded on a colour scale that ranges from A to Z and is established by the Gemological Institute of America.
Evaluating Carat Weight
The connection between diamond weight and price is quite simple; the larger the diamond is, the more it costs. However, you may be surprised to find out how miniscule the differences can be. Diamonds are weighed to a thousandth (0.001) of a carat and then rounded to the nearest hundredth, or point.
Cut
Think of a cut as being the quality of the diamond’s designer. You may have excellent fabric for a dress, and a good colour, but if the dress is not designed or made well, it will never look good on you. Cut refers to a diamond’s proportions, symmetry and polish, all of which can have a huge effect on the appearance (and worth) of the diamond.
If you are interested in a diamond, contact us to learn more about the 4 C’s of your particular diamond. At Randor, we want you to make an informed choice that will allow you to appreciate the unique quality of your diamond.