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Finding The Perfect Diamond: The Four Cs
The quest
to find the perfect diamond is the goal of many buyers, whether they are looking
for an engagement ring, wedding ring, loose diamonds, or other piece
of fine diamond jewelry. In some ways the term “perfect” is subjective – if she
is satisfied with the 18k white gold, pave set, Cushion-Cut diamond engagement
ring you have chosen for her, then to her “perfect” is the visible display of
love you are offering – nothing else matters!
However, perhaps there is a particular diamond that you’d prefer he buy for you,
something he may not know and could use your help selecting. He is rightfully
concerned that a particular diamond on display may not look quite right when
worn on your hand, but he isn’t certain which one will look the best. Maybe he
understands that the diamond ring he chooses should complement your existing
jewelry or that you prefer something less traditional, a different metal color,
or have some other preference he isn’t aware of.
Some couples like to flip through a jewelry catalog, navigate their way around a
professional jeweler’s website, or head to the mall to try on and examine a
variety of pieces. This can be an excellent way to show him what you like while
allowing him to make the purchase himself and “surprise” you later on. If he
needs additional help, you can share with him a concise overview of what to look
for in a diamond, whether for a ring or a loose diamond.
The following overview highlights the attributes found in every diamond:
Four Cs Of Diamonds
The four attributes of any diamond are its color, clarity, cut, and carat
(weight).
Color – Concerning diamonds, the less visible the color, the better. Diamonds
are categorized according to range, with five ranges consisting
of colorless,
near colorless, faint yellow, very light yellow, and light yellow. Each range is
assigned several letter grades with D-F being colorless, G-J near colorless, and
so on. Traditionalists will likely choose a colorless diamond while most
shoppers are very happy with near colorless diamonds as they appear colorless
when held face up. Near colorless diamonds are particularly prized for their
excellent value.
Clarity – The number of blemishes, particularly the location and amount of
flaws, will determine a diamond’s clarity. It takes special magnification to see
flaws when they are present. A flawless diamond is a rarity, containing
absolutely no inclusions. Different clarity grades are assigned to diamonds with
various levels of inclusions. Those diamonds with inclusions visible to the
naked eye are considered imperfect and are of low value, not something to
consider giving as a gift.
Cut
– While the shape of a diamond is important, the distribution of mass
determines just how well the stone handles light. An ideal cut diamond will reflect light back through the top facets of the rock. A poorly cut diamond –
too shallow or too deep – means that light will escape through the bottom of the
stone, hampering the diamond’s brilliance. Go with an ideal cut diamond and
you’ll have chosen an appealing diamond.
Carat – When you think of carat, you are concerning yourself with the diamond’s
weight. Carat weight determines price with larger carat stones costing more.
Though two diamonds may weigh the same, color, clarity, and cut can influence
their value greatly.
Truly, the “perfect” diamond is one that has a good balance of attributes, but
is also something that is selected from the heart and presented by the man to
the woman he loves as a tangible expression of his love and commitment to her.
Beyond doubt, there isn’t anything more perfect than that!
For questions or advice, contact Robert at 858.692.3939 or Robert@IncendiaDiamonds.com.
