Diamonds – Get to know the ‘Four Cs’
Carat
Refers to the weight of the diamond.
Carat is often confused with the size of a diamond even though it is actually a measure of weight.
The cut and mounting of a diamond can make your stone appear larger (or smaller) than its actual weight, so remember to allow our qualified team to help you select the perfect mounting for your diamond.
Clarity
Refers to the presence of inclusions in a diamond.
Every diamond is unique. Naturally occurring features, known as inclusions, provide a special fingerprint within the stone. Inclusions are natural identifying characteristics, such as minerals or fractures, which are created when the diamond is formed in the earth. They may look like tiny crystals, clouds, or feathers.
To view an inclusion, jewelers use magnification. The positioning of an inclusion can affect the value of a diamond.
Inclusions are ranked on a scale of perfection, known as clarity, which was established by the Gemological Institute of America. The Clarity Scale ranges from F, flawless, to I, included, and is based on the visibility of inclusions at a magnification of 10x.
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, which could make a diamond less brilliant.
Color
Refers to the degree to which a diamond is colorless.
Diamonds can be any color of the rainbow, but white diamonds are still the most popular.
Diamonds are graded on a color scale established by the GIA which ranges from D, colorless, to Z.
Cut
Refers to angles and proportions of a diamond.
Nature determines so much about a diamond, but it takes a master cutter to reveal the stone’s true brilliance, fire, and ultimate beauty.
Based on scientific formulas, a well cut diamond will internally reflect light from one mirror-like facet to another and disperse and reflect it through the top of the stone.
This results in a display of brilliance and fire: diamonds that are cut too deep or too shallow leak light through the side or bottom, resulting in less brilliance.
Cut also refers to the shape of a diamond. Examples of different shapes are round, square, pear, or heart shaped stones.
What to Spend
A diamond means investing in forever.
Every individual buying a diamond seeks out the very best diamond within their budget. Nature’s variety means that you will always find a diamond to suit your taste, budget, and occasion. If you’re getting ready to buy an engagement ring, you may want to consider the often quoted guideline of spending one to two months’ salary.
Any diamond you purchase will be a sound investment. Their rare qualities have been sought after for years, and their desirability and value remain undiminished today and will continue for years to come.
Whatever you spend, your diamond will represent one of life’s deepest investments. It will be treasured for generations, not for what it’s worth, but for the memories it contains.
Buddy’s Jewelry would love to have the privilege to assist you with selecting the perfect diamond for you special occasion. We promise to take the time to educate you, and help you find the combination of characteristics you want in your investment.
