What you need to know about diamonds.
“The Science” – Diamond is a solid form of the element carbon with its atoms arranged in a crystal structure called diamond cubic. Natural Diamonds are formed deep within the Earth about 100 miles or so below the surface in the upper mantle. There’s a lot of pressure and high temperature that contribute to the growth of diamond crystals in the Earth. It is the hardest naturally occurring substance known; it is also the most popular gemstone.
HOW TO PICK A DIAMOND
Choosing a beautiful diamond involves narrowing down your shape and selecting high-quality options for the 4Cs — without overpaying.
The 4 Cs
Before making a diamond purchase, it is advisable to make yourself familiar with a diamond’s 4 Cs – cut, color, clarity and carat weight. Every diamond is graded according to these four features.
Clarity
A diamond’s clarity is very simple to understand. It simply refers to the absence of tiny imperfections within a diamond. These imperfections can be internal or external, known respectively as inclusions or blemishes. A flawless diamond without these imperfections is exceptionally rare and henceforth exceptionally valuable.
Color
Color is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing a diamond. Color presents itself in a diamond as a light hint of yellow or brown. With the exception of fancy color diamonds, most diamonds are graded on their lack of color.
Cut
Of all the 4Cs, cut has the greatest influence on the diamond’s overall aesthetic appearance. A diamond’s cut is truly the key to the beauty of every diamond. Simply put, it determines how sparkly your diamond will be.
Carat Weight
The word “carat” has a fascinating history, originating in the ancient times when a diamond’s weight was measured using the seeds of the carob tree, or carobs. One carat diamond was equal in weight to one carob bean, and hence the name we use today, carat.
Note
For superior brilliance, choose a diamond with a Cut grade of Very Good or Excellent for round diamonds, and Good or Better in fancy shape diamonds. When choosing a diamond in this range, make sure its symmetry and polish are Very Good or Excellent, so that the impact of the above-average Cut is not obscured.
For those on a budget, primarily concerned with size, a diamond of Fair – Good cut may be an acceptable choice, especially in fancy shapes. While the diamond will lack the brilliance of a well-cut diamond, it will allow a significant increase in size for the same price.
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