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DIAMONDS

Diamond Education- Essentials

Up until the Mid-Twentieth Century, there was no universally agreed upon system for assessing diamond standards. It was then that the Gemological Institute of America (G.I.A) created the ‘Diamond 4C’s and the International Diamond Grading System’.

These include; Colour, Cut, Clarity and Carat Weight.  

Ironically diamond ‘colour’, actually refers to the absence of colour in the stone. A higher value diamond will have zero hues whereas those displaying a higher colouration will be of a less financial value. 

A diamond’s clarity is measured by the existence – or absence – of visible flaws. During the growth process of a diamond, a variety of internal characteristics called ‘inclusions’ and external characteristics called ‘blemishes’ can occur; almost like a natural birthmark. Find out more information on Diamond Clarity in our helpful guide. 

The size of a diamond is measured not only by its dimensions but predominantly by carat weight.  The traditional unit of measure, One Carat, is approximately 0.2 grams. Please click ‘read more’ to find our Diamond Carat Weight guide.

The Gemological Institute of Ameria (G.I.A), in 2006 introduced the fourth C to the lexicon of Diamond Grading: ‘Cut’. They define ‘cut’ as ‘cut grade’. which is the way a diamond has been crafted to maximize interaction with light, creating the archetypal ‘sparkle’ 

When purchasing a diamond it is helpful to have an understanding of a diamonds anatomy to truly appreciate diamonds and all of their intricacies. It is important that you consider the most important components which bring the diamond to life which are the diameter, table, and depth. Explore these elements in our anatomy of a diamond guide.

Diamonds have traditionally been cut into round shapes as it is thought that this shape produces the most dazzling light performance, thus creating the distinctive diamond ‘sparkle’. Diamonds are also available in other shapes and there is an increasing popularity for a non-traditional cut diamond. 

The evolution of the archetypal ‘round brilliant cut’ diamond as we know it today, starts with the basic form of a rough diamond- the octahedron.  It was only in the 13th century that it was realised that diamonds could be cleaved or cut to improve the optical effect that we have come to know so well now. Uncover the depth of history of diamond cutting in our comprehensive guide here.

A diamond certificate, also called a ‘diamond grading report’ or ‘diamond dossier’ is an evaluation created by a team of trained professionals. The diamond is measured, examined and inspected closely. A diligent certificate includes an analysis of your diamond’s dimensions, clarity, colour, polish, symmetry, and other characteristics. Enhance your diamond knowledge by reading more in our diamond certification guide.

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