The one rule when choosing diamonds is this; if you want a high quality diamond, you need to pay attention to the four Cs.
The four Cs of diamonds dictate important aspects that determine whether a diamond is up to par. Carat, clarity, color and cut - these four Cs signify the properties that bear testament to a diamond’s worth.
For those looking for a short and quick lesson on buying diamonds, we at Solitaire Jewelers explain each aspect:
Explaining the 4 Cs
1. Carat
Do not mistake the measurement of size as the carat. When speaking with regards to diamonds, carats represent the weight of the actual stone however; this weight is measured in a very different way than one would think.
When measuring carat weight, the two characteristics that are taken in to consideration are the distance from the top of the diamond - measured in millimeters - and the grade of the diamond.
The cut grade needs to be in proper proportions so that it reflects maximum amount of light from the top of the stone. The diamond is then measured on a rate of points.
If you have a 1-carat diamond, it will be comprised of 100 points (1.3 millimeter equals to 0.01 carat weight, which equals to 1 point).
2. Clarity
Many diamond cutters hide flaws by cutting or polishing the diamond in a particular way. But since hiding them doesn’t actually get rid of them, purchasers of diamonds use a clarity grading system to measure them. The scale ranges from F (flawless inside and out) to I1, I2 and I3 (included – three levels).
These levels are usually decided by those who have an eye for spotting flaws in diamonds.
3. Color
Diamonds come in many colors. But it is the white diamond that is traditionally valued above all others. Using a 23-grade scale that starts from D to Z, the diamonds situated at the top of the scale are colorless, and are regarded as the rarest stones, and thus, the most expensive.
As the rate goes down, the diamonds start to become more yellow or even grey.
Diamonds on a J scale and beyond usually exude a yellow tint and are more affordable than the exclusive D-grade diamonds. As for the color diamonds, they appear naturally and rarely. So it is no surprise that they would be more expensive. Though, if you want an affordable color diamond, you can choose one that has had color treatment.
4. Cut
A diamond’s cut is the hardest facet to quantify because each cut differs in accordance with the cutter’s choice in polish and shape.
Many diamonds are cut to maintain their heaviness so that they fetch a bigger price for their carat weight.
However, most cutters focus on cutting a diamond to signify its beauty, rather than the price. As a prism of light, a diamond has to be cut to maximize shine.
So if you were to judge a diamond based on its cut, the best way to do so would be by seeking;
- The brightness of the reflection from the diamond
- The pattern of light when it creates a rainbow
- The intensity of the sparkle when it is moved under the light
Are you looking to buy diamonds in Honolulu? If so, Solitaire Jewelers has a collection of diamonds for you to choose from. Go ahead and visit our show room today or log onto our website and use our guide of the 4Cs to buy your diamond today!