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What You Need To Know/FAQs
The 4 C's
To work out the value and quality of the diamonds, a skilled observer needs to verify each of the 4 Cs - carat weight, cut, clarity, and color. These qualities are combined to determine the value of diamonds. The rarest stones exhibit the finest qualities in each of the 4 Cs and have the most value.
Each of the 4 Cs must be considered to confirm a well-balanced diamond. Each diamond has a unique combination of the 4 Cs of varying quality.
View our sample Diamond Certificate certified by E.G.I, the European Gemological Institute.
Please note, our diamonds are certified only where stated on the product page.
Carat Weight
All diamonds are measured in Carats. 1 carat is exactly 0.20 miligrams. Points are also used for stones that weigh less than 1/2 a carat. For example, a 25 point diamond is the equivalent of a 1/4 carat stone (0.25). Large diamonds, which are infrequently found in nature, show off the stone's delicate color and fine cut, which creates its overall beauty. Though larger diamonds are highly sought, a smaller sized diamond may have higher clarity and color or a more precise cut and be of equal value.
It is important not to confuse weight with size. Two diamonds of exactly the same size might weight differently. The same can be said when comparing the carat weight among different stones. Since each mineral has a different density, a 1-carat diamond will have a different volume than a 1-carat sapphire.
Diamond Clarity
The flawless grade (FL) is used to describe diamonds in which a skilled observer, under favorable lighting conditions, cannot see any inclusions or surface blemishes, after thorough examination with a binocular microscope at ten power magnification or with a 10x corrected loupe. Small extra facets on the pavilion near the girdle, not visible when viewed from above, are permitted as are small naturals when they are confined to the girdle and do not flatten the girdle outline. Internal graining is permitted provided it does not draw any color or texture and is not observable through crown.
The internally flawless grade (IF) describes diamonds which have no internal chrematistics observable under the same conditions as described, but which have minor surface blemishes that do not penetrate the stone.
Surface grain lines are permanent provided they are not too thick or numerous so as to detract from the beauty of the stone. Internal graining is permitted, provided it does not draw color or texture.
The VVS1 & VVS2 grades (VERY, VERY SLIGHTLY INCLUDED) are used to describe diamonds which have very, very small inclusions which are difficult for a skilled observer to see under the conditions as described. Colored or textured graining is permitted provided it is not observable through the crown.
The VS1 & VS2 grades (VERY, SLIGHTLY INCLUDED) are used to describe those stones with very small inclusions which can be difficult to observe under the conditions as described. Except for larger stones or occasionally with Emerald cut diamonds, these are rarely visible to the unaided eye.
The SI1, SI2 & SI3 grades (SLIGHTLY INCLUDED) are used to describe stones with small inclusions which are usually obvious when viewed under the described conditions.
The P1, P2 & P3 grades (PIQUE) are used to describe stones with medium or large inclusions (Piques) which are usually obvious to a skilled observer with the unaided eye under favorable lighting conditions.
Every diamond is unique – with its own series of internal and external characteristics. The skilled grader takes into consideration the size, nature, location and number of these characteristics to assign each stone its proper grade.
Diamond Color
Grades in the color of diamonds range from D-Z. D is colorless and of the highest quality. E and F are also graded as colorless. G, H, I and J are near colorless. Diamonds graded K, L, and M will have obvious hints of color and as the scale gets to P you might find subtle changes in hue and tone. The exceptions to the rule are "Fancy" diamonds in well-highlighted colors that include pink, blue, red, green, and canary yellow. These are particularly rare and much sought after.
Diamond Cut
The cut of the a diamond is a combination of several factors. Two of the most widely used criteria used to measure a diamond's cut are Shape and Proportions.
Shapes
Shape refers to the inherent shape of the diamond. Among the most common shapes available on the market are the round cut, the marquise, the pear shape, the oval, the princess cut, the emerald cut and the heart shape cut. Currently, our diamond rings are available in princess and round cut.
Proportions
It is in the hands of the expert diamond cutter to bring out the fantastic fire of a diamond. Well cut diamonds reflect the maximum amount of light, through the diamond from one mirror-like surface to another, dispersed through the top of the stone. Diamonds cut too shallow or too deep lose light that disappears through the side or bottom. A poorly proportioned stone is less brilliant and spectacular and thus less valuable.
