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ULTIMATE GUIDE

Diamond Education


All about 4Cs


COLOR      CUT      CLARITY      CARAT


I. COLOR

Although many people think of gem quality diamonds are colorless, truly colorless diamonds are actually very rare. Most diamonds used in jewelry are nearly colorless with tints of yellow or browns. Color grades are determined by comparing each diamond to a master set. Each letter grade represents a range of color and is a measure of how noticeable a color is.



Color grades are determined by comparing each diamond to a master set. Each letter grade represents a range of color and is a measure of how noticeable a color is.

Fluorescence. Some diamonds can emit a visible light when exposed to ultraviolet radiation, but fluorescence is not a factor in determining color or clarity grades. However, a description of its strength and color is provided on GIA Reports as an additional identifying characteristic.


II. CUT

A polished diamond’s beauty lies on its complex relationship with light. The magnificent display you see is made up of three attributes: Brightness is the combination of all white light reflecting from the surface and inteior of diamond. Fire describes the “flares” of color emitted from diamond. Scintillation describes the pattern of light and dark areas and the sparkle you see when the diamond, the light, or the observer moves.  

IDEAL CUT


A diamond’s proportions affect its light performance, which in turn affects its beauty and overall appeal. Diamonds with fine proportions, symmetry, and polish optimize their interaction with light, and have increased brightness, fire and scintillation.



III. CARAT

One carat equals 200 milligrams in weight. For diamonds under one carat, each carat

is divided into 100 points ­– similiar to pennies in a dollar.

0.75 ct. = 75 points, 1/2 ct. = 50 points.


FINE CUT

SHALLOW CUT

DEEP CUT

 

I. COLOR

Although many people think of gem quality diamonds are colorless, truly colorless diamonds are actually very rare. Most diamonds used in jewelry are nearly colorless with tints of yellow or browns. Color grades are determined by comparing each diamond to a master set. Each letter grade represents a range of color and is a measure of how noticeable a color is.



Color grades are determined by comparing each diamond to a master set. Each letter grade represents a range of color and is a measure of how noticeable a color is.

Fluorescence. Some diamonds can emit a visible light when exposed to ultraviolet radiation, but fluorescence is not a factor in determining color or clarity grades. However, a description of its strength and color is provided on GIA Reports as an additional identifying characteristic.


II. CUT

A polished diamond’s beauty lies on its complex relationship with light. The magnificent display you see is made up of three attributes: Brightness is the combination of all white light reflecting from the surface and inteior of diamond. Fire describes the “flares” of color emitted from diamond. Scintillation describes the pattern of light and dark areas and the sparkle you see when the diamond, the light, or the observer moves.  

IDEAL CUT


A diamond’s proportions affect its light performance, which in turn affects its beauty and overall appeal. Diamonds with fine proportions, symmetry, and polish optimize their interaction with light, and have increased brightness, fire and scintillation.



III. CARAT

One carat equals 200 milligrams in weight. For diamonds under one carat, each carat

is divided into 100 points ­– similiar to pennies in a dollar.

0.75 ct. = 75 points, 1/2 ct. = 50 points.



FINE CUT

SHALLOW CUT

DEEP CUT


ROUND

A timeless classic that has symbolized eternal love for centuries.


ROUND SHAPE RINGS


OVAL

  A top trending shape with surface area that creates the appearances of a larger stone.


OVAL SHAPE RINGS


MARQUISE

  A the distinctive shape that’s enjoying a resurgence in popularity.


MARQUISE SHAPE RINGS


PRINCESS

  One of the most popular shapes that also shows beautifully in a wide range of ring styles.


PRINCESS SHAPE RINGS


RADIANT

  This shape comes in a range of proportions from more square to more rectangular.


RADIANT SHAPE RINGS


CUSHION

  Across between a round and princess cut and an especially popular choice for halo rings.


CUSHION SHAPE RINGS


PEAR

  A shape getting its go love on social media and that makes any ring especially unique.


PEAR SHAPE RINGS


RADIANT

  This shape comes in a range of proportions from more square to more rectangular.


RADIANT SHAPE RINGS


ASSCHER

  Outstanding brilliance and are known for creating a ‘hall of mirrors’ effect.



ASSCHER SHAPE RINGS