The Characteristics of a Quality Diamond

The word diamond comes from the Greek word "adamas" meaning unconquerable and indestructible. Because of its indestructibility, the diamond has become a symbol of enduring love and is used in engagement and wedding rings and other gifts given to convey love. The diamond has also long been a symbol of wealth and prosperity.

Color, clarity, cut, and carat weight are the four factors used to describe and classify diamonds and are commonly referred to as the four "C's". These can be confusing for many people, so I have tried to clarify the best way to choose a quality diamond.

The color of a diamond is based on a scale from the Gemological Institute of America and when it comes to the color of a diamond, less is more. The less color a diamond has, the more valuable it is. There are diamonds that are not in the normal color range and these are considered "fancy" diamonds and come in a huge array of colors. Diamonds with a GIA ranking of K-Z are considered yellow diamonds and range from having a very faint yellow tint to having a distinct yellow color.

The next "C" a buyer needs to consider is clarity. Like color, clarity is also graded on a scale and refers to the clearness of a diamond. Once again, the GIA has a scale to help determine the clarity of a diamond. The clarity scale goes from grade F1, which is flawless, to grade I3, which is considered imperfect.

Flawless diamonds are extremely rare and show no inclusions under magnification, while internally flawless diamonds may have very slight imperfections that cannot necessarily be seen under a microscope. Inclusions in a diamond are flaws that do not allow light to pass freely through it.

"C" number three is shape. When referring to the cut of a diamond, shape is actually the most appropriate term. The cut of a diamond is what gives it its sparkle.

There are many different cuts of diamonds, but four of the most popular cuts are round, emerald, princess and marquise.

The round cut remains the most popular because it is generally the best shape for most diamonds. An emerald cut diamond has a less brilliant, glassier look and is often selected by people who prefer a more subdued appearance. The princess cut diamond is basically a square version of the round cut, but it is more brilliant and has more sparkle than a traditional square cut. A marquise cut diamond is considered a fancy cut and is a derivative of the brilliant round cut. It may also be referred to as the navette cut.

The final "C" to consider when purchasing a diamond is its carat weight.

Carat weight refers to the weight of a diamond, not its size as many people think. It is not a factor in the quality of a diamond, but is, in fact, the basic measurement of the diamond. Diamonds of larger carat size are more valuable because larger stones are more rare.

A carat is considered to be one-fifth of a gram. This standard was set in 1914.

I have named four very important characteristics to consider when purchasing a diamond, but you may also want to consider a fifth "C", which may be equally important. That is confidence. You should always use a jeweler with whom you have confidence in to help you select just the right diamond for your occasion.

A popular television commercial proclaims, "A diamond is forever." When purchasing something that is going to last forever, shouldn't you take the time to get it right?