The 4 C's of Diamond Buying

Do you know the four things you should consider when buying a diamond?

 Cut

The cut of a diamond pertains to its proportion and angles. Among the four C's (Cut, Carat, Color, Clarity), the cut has the most substantial impact on the diamond's luster and brilliance—what we perceive as its beauty. A meticulously executed cut enhances the gem's fire and brilliance.

A wide array of diamond cuts exists, with Round and Oval being the most prevalent and favored, particularly for engagement rings. However, depending on individual style preferences, numerous other shapes are available to choose from. If you're uncertain about which cut aligns best with your preferences, seeking advice from an expert can be immensely beneficial.

You can read more about each cut here.

Color

Did you know that most diamonds have color in them? 

Diamond color is a fascinating aspect of these precious gemstones. They can range from completely colorless to light yellow or light brown. Some even occur in rare natural colors like blue, red, and pink, which are classified as "fancy" diamonds and are evaluated using a different grading system compared to colorless diamonds.

For colorless diamonds, they are assessed on a scale from D to Z.  A "D" grade signifies a diamond that is entirely colorless, while a Z grade indicates a diamond with noticeable coloration, usually in shades of light brown or yellow. Among these, colorless diamonds are the most sought after and prized for their rarity and brilliance. This makes understanding the nuances of diamond color an important aspect of choosing the perfect diamond for any occasion.

 Clarity

 

 Clarity refers to the presence or absence of inclusions (internal characteristics) or blemishes (external characteristics) in a diamond. While it's rare to find a diamond completely free of these features, most inclusions and blemishes are typically not visible to the naked eye.

The GIA Clarity scale encompasses 11 grades, with the majority of diamonds falling within the middle grades of VS (Very Slightly Included) or SI (Slightly Included). This scale allows for a precise evaluation of a diamond's clarity characteristics, providing valuable information for potential buyers.

Carat

 The carat is quite simply the physical weight of a diamond.  Measured in metric carats, one carat is equal to one fifth of a gram.  Carat weight is one of the most discernable qualities of a diamond and is crucial in determining a diamond's size, and subsequently its overall value and appeal.

 

There are many considerations when choosing a diamond. Our knowledgeable stylists at Water Street Jewelers offer expert guidance and can help you choose the perfect diamond for your personal style and budget.