The 4Cs of diamonds are an internationally accepted standard used for assessing the quality of any given diamond. While two stones may, for example, have the same clarity, they may look visibly different and have drastically different prices. Whether you’re looking for womens wedding rings or a new ring to celebrate a life milestone, the 4Cs are a good starting point for finding similar features across stones. Here’s what you need to know when picking out a diamond.
Color: What Is the Color of the Diamond?
Interestingly, the color of a diamond is graded on the absence of color. The Gemological Institute of America created the standard D-to-Z color-grading system, with D being the clearest. This means it’s the most chemically pure and structurally perfect diamond, almost like a drop of pure water. Often, the differences in color are only visible to a trained expert but can still have a major impact on price. Diamonds typically appear clear to a light yellow, but there are also fancy-color diamonds available.
Cut: Which Cut Appeals to You Most?
While you may think of the cut as the diamond’s shape, such as round, heart, or pear, the cut is actually graded based on how well the facets interact with light. When you’re looking for promise rings that catch the light and give off a stunning sparkle, what you’re looking for is the precise artistry and workmanship to cut the stone so the polish, proportions, and symmetry return light through those facets. That said, the shape will also affect how the light scatters from the diamond and how it sparkles.
Clarity: Purity of the Diamond
Diamonds are created when carbon is exposed to immense heat and pressure deep in the earth. This can result in imperfections, referred to as inclusions, which can impact the diamond’s overall appearance. The number, size, nature, relief, and position of these inclusions are how clarity is evaluated. No diamond is perfectly pure, but some inclusions are too small to be seen by anyone but a trained diamond grader. Diamonds graded VS1 and SI2, or Very Slightly Included 1 and Slightly Included 2, may look the same to the naked eye but are very different in overall quality.
Carat: How Big Is Your Diamond?
The diamond carat measures the weight of the diamond. A carat is equal to 200 milligrams, and each carat is divided into 100 points, meaning one point equals .01 carat. A single diamond on a ring can be nearly any size that fits on a ring, while diamonds on tennis bracelets need to be close in carat weight to give a uniform look. Price increases with carat weight as larger diamonds are rarer and thus more desirable. As seen from the other Cs, however, two diamonds with identical carat weights can be drastically different in terms of clarity, cut, color, and price.
About Shane Co.
Shane Co., a family-owned fine jeweler since 1929, makes quality fine jewelry crafted with care. With styles designed in-house and hand-finished by on-site jewelers, Shane Co. is the place to discover truly unique pieces for a one-of-a-kind gift, celebrating a milestone, treating yourself, or the perfect engagement ring. Shane Co.’s passion for diamonds and gemstones goes back four generations, and the brand responsibly sources hand-selected stones cut to the highest standards. Shane Co., your friend and jeweler, is a place where everyone is welcome. For jewelry crafted with the greatest care, including diamond rings and tennis bracelets, Shane Co. is your trusted source for fine jewelry.
Find diamond rings, tennis bracelets, and more fine jewelry at https://www.shaneco.com/
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