"Diamonds by Design"
Buying Guide
Source:
ADiamondIsForever.com
The first thing you need to know when buying a diamond is the 4Cs: carat,
clarity, color and cut. The 4Cs are used to classify the rarity and determine
the price of diamonds.
Carat
The carat is a measure of weight. One carat is equivalent to 200 milligrams.
One carat can also be divided into 100 points. A .75 carat diamond is the same
as 75 points or a 3/4 carat diamond.
It is not true that a 1-carat diamond costs exactly twice the price of a
half-carat diamond. Since diamonds are found less frequently in nature, a
1-carat will cost more than twice a 1/2 carat diamond (assuming color, claity
and cut remain constant).
Clarity
The greater a diamond's clarity, the more valuable and rare it is. Clarity is
determined by the presence of inclusions in a diamond. Inclusions are natural
identifying characteristics such as minerals or fractures developed while
diamonds are formed in the earth. They may look like crystals, clouds or
feathers.
Jewelers use a magnifying loupe to view inclusions. Inclusions are ranked on a
scale of perfection. The clarity scale ranges from Flawless (F) to Included
(I). This is determined based on the visibility of inclusions.
Color
Diamonds range in color and are graded on a color scale established by the
Gemological Institute of America (GIA) which ranges from D (colorless) to Z.
Warmer colored diamonds (K-Z) are particularly desirable when set in yellow
gold. Icy winter white diamonds (D-J) look stunning set in white gold or
platinum.
Color differences are very subtle. Therefore, colors are graded under
controlled lighting conditions and are compared to a master set for accuracy.
Colorless stones, graded D, treasured for their rarity, are highest on the
Diamond Quality Pyramid. Color, however, ultimately comes down to personal
taste. Ask a jeweler to help you determine your color preference.
Cut
The cut refers to the angles and proportions of a diamond. A well-cut diamond
will internally reflect light through the top of the stone. Diamonds that are
cut too deep or too shallow lose or leak light though the side or bottom,
resulting in less brilliance and value.
The cut also refers to the shape of the diamond -- round, square, pear or heart.
Since a round diamond is symmetrical and capable of reflecting nearly all the
light that enters, it is the most brilliant of all diamond shapes.
Finding a quality jeweler
The 5th C: Confidence
A good jeweler is the first step to a smart purchase. To find a jeweler you can
trust, ask your family and friends for recommendations. Your jeweler should be
knowledgeable about diamonds and help you feel comfortable making this important
purchase.
