Diamond Grades in the UK - Diamonds Online

Buy Diamonds Online at:

When assessing the value of a diamond jewelers look at what they call the four C's. The quartet comprises: Carat (weight), Color , Clarity and Cut , and each has a distinct bearing on how the diamond is graded. The true worth of a gem can only be established once the interplay of each of these factors has been addressed.

Weight is arguably the most important variable and you don't have to be an expert to know that bigger is better. Weight is measured in carats, with one carat being equal to 0.20 grams. The world's heaviest diamond was found in 1909 in South Africa and named the Cullinan Diamond. Today the 530.2 carat rock sits on top of the royal scepter in The Tower of London.

First time diamond buyers often confuse the weight with size, however as different cuts can be deceptive the industry relies on the former. Another common blunder is splashing out on the heaviest rock that you can find, without paying due attention to the remaining three C's .

As a rule of thumb colorless diamonds are more valuable than colored diamonds, but of course there are exceptions to the rule. 'Fancy' diamonds colored pink or blue are phenomenally rare and consequently command sky-high prices, but for most the ideal is to have a clear, colorless rock. Traditionally yellow diamonds are regarded as less desirable, although this is subject to the whims of fashion. The Gemological Institute of America uses an alphabetical scale running from D-Z to grade the color of a diamond: D represents a colorless stone, while Z represents the deepest shade of yellow.

The clarity of a diamond is a measure of the number of internal and external flaws it contains. Considering the incredible geological pressures that lead to diamond formation it's hardly surprising that most are in fact flawed. Internal blemishes include: mineral deposits, bubbles and cracks. External flaws are usually the product o f bad cutting. Click here for more information on grading clarity.

Diamond cutting is still historically in its infancy and new cuts are continually being mastered. The cut not only affects the shape of the diamond, but also how it sparkles. Brilliant cuts (for example 'round' or 'princess') are used to lend the diamond's sparkle fire , while stepped cuts (for example 'emerald') make the diamond flash white light. Click here for more information on diamond cuts .

Pink Fridge Online Magazine > dating online > marriage counselling > wedding planning guide > pregnancy symptoms & advice > how to work at home > tanning > baby gifts > shopping for engagement rings > shopping for sunglasses > shopping for shoes > shopping for wedding favours > shopping for wine

© The Pink Fridge Online Magazine 2011 - Diamonds

Contact | Disclaimer | Sitemap | Advertising