The 4 Cs of Diamonds

Understanding the 4C's of Diamonds When buying a diamond online or at a local jeweler it is important to understand how they are evaluated. By clarifying the most important characteristics - carat, color, clarity, cut, and shape - you can ensure the maximum value and quality of your selection. Cut pertains to both the shape and the make of a diamond. Color The Four C's refers to the amount of yellowness in a diamond and is graded on an alphabetical scale from D to Z. Clarity is based on the presence or absence of inclusions within a diamond. Lastly, Carat is the unit of measurement which describes a diamond's weight. Color Clarity A diamond's Inclusions are nature's birthmarks, the characteristics - or lack thereof - that make each and every diamond unique. The fewer appearance is significantly influenced by its color which ranges from D (colorless) to Z (light yellow). A colorless diamond will exude flashes of light in a visible inclusions and blemishes a diamond has, the better its clarity rating, and the more rare and spectrum of hues, a characteristic valuable it is. referred to as "fire". Color in a diamond inhibits its ability to reflect light. Therefore, diamonds Highest-quality color grade a diamond can with noticeable color will not have receive Inclusions found on the same fire as colorless or near a diamond can be colorless diamonds. considered nature's birthmarks. Girdle Cut While high grades of color and clarity contribute to a diamond's appeal, it's the cut that determines the symmetry of the stone's facets, its over- Carat Culet all proportions, and its ability to reflect brilliance and light. Since 1913, the weight of diamonds and gemstones has been measured in carats. When comparing carats to the metric system, 1 carat is equal to 0.2 grams or 0.007 ounces. With all other factors being equal, diamonds of greater carat weights are exponentially more valuable than diamonds of lower carat weights. Refraction Diamond Shape A diamond's shape is its outline when viewed from the top and is one of its most important defining characteristics. Round brilliant cut diamonds have long been the most popular, although many consumers prefer alternative shapes, including cushion, princess, and asscher, among others. Round Princess Asscher Radiant Cushion Emerald Marquise Oval Pear Нeart BRilliance - Toll Free: 866-737-0754 Email: [email protected] www.brilliance.com © 2011 Brilliance LLC Depth - Pavilion + UMOJ) -