The 5 C's of Diamonds
The universal method for understanding the quality of any diamond.
Cut
Cut is the most important factor to consider when seeking a scintillating diamond. Proper proportions allow the light to travel through and reflect efficiently producing a brilliant display of colors and facets.
If a diamond is cut poorly (with facets being too shallow or too thick), the light “leaks” outward in unexpected places and results in an excellent dull, lack-luster effect. An ideal cut diamond delivers a dazzling fire and brilliance that is honed by ideal angles with excellent symmetry and polish that refracts light up through the table and crown.
Since the cut is a very important factor to consider within the 4 C’s of diamond selection, experienced gemologists developed 5 cut grades to better assist customers in recognizing and measuring the quality of a stone’s cut in order to select what’s best for them.
Color
Diamond color actually refers to lack of color. The higher the diamond color grade the more colorless the diamond. If there is a noticeable tint throughout the diamond, usually casting a pale yellow hue, it receives a lower grade. The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) has developed a scale to help determine a diamond’s color, grade, and overall quality.
Carat
Carat refers to the measurement of a diamond’s weight, not its size, with which it is often confused.. When deciding on a carat weight, consider reducing the weight just slightly and choose an ideal cut to showcase the diamond; the difference in size will be minimal while the overall beauty and value will be greater.
Clarity
Clarity is an evaluation of a diamond’s imperfections.
Gemologists have produced a rating system to determine the overall “flawlessness” of a diamond, from a grade of “FL” to represent no imperfections detected under a 10x microscope, to “Imperfect 3” which represents that blemishes within or on the diamond are highly visible to the naked eye.
Creativity
Regardless of whatever specifics you have chosen for your diamond, the 5th C applies to all custom designs. That C is Creativity. Creativity is what will really make the most difference in your finished piece of jewelry and make it so much more special for you to enjoy forever. We work with clients to always integrate some significant and meaningful design elements into our custom jewelry pieces. Maybe it is using birthstones as small accent stones, custom engraving inside, or even integrating stones from other pieces of family heirloom jewelry into the finished design – regardless of your preference a bit of personalized creativity goes a long way in making your jewelry unique. Another aspect of Creativity that must be considered is how the jewelry is designed specifically for the stone you have selected. As we have mentioned previously, each stone is perfectly unique and as a skilled jewelry professional, we work with our customers to identify the best way to set the stone and design the jewelry optimize the stone’s brilliance and sparkle. So, remember, when thinking about diamond jewelry, don’t forget about the 5th C – Creativity!