The Four Cs of Diamonds, and picking the perfect stone:
CUT: The cut or proportions of a diamond dramatically affects both how much the diamond weighs and how well it reflects light. When a round brilliant diamond has been cut to "ideal" proportions by a master cutter, it is a splendor to behold. When a diamond is cut to the ideal proportion, all of the light entering from any direction is totally reflected through the top and is dispersed into a display of sparling flashes and rainbow colors. The ideal cut is used for value comparisons, and is the standard by which recut weights are calculated for diamonds of inferior make.
The pink arrows represent light reflection. If a diamond is not "ideal," the reflected light does not come back though the top. This will cause the diamond to look dark rather than brilliant.
CLARITY: Practically all diamonds contain naturally occuring internal characteristics called inclusions. The size, nature, location, and amount of inclusions determine a diamond's clarity grade and affect its cost. One unique advantage of the Ideal Cut is that its sparkle can mask otherwise noticable inclusions.
COLOR: Most diamonds, although appearing colorless, actually have slight tones of yellow or brown. As these tones become more apparent, the rarity and the cost decrease. There is an exception to this rule at the far yellow end of the spectrum. Very yellow diamonds cause the cost and rarity to increase.
CARAT WEIGHT: The weight of a diamond is measured in carats. One carat is divided into 100 parts called "points," 1 ct = 1.00, 1/2 ct. = 0.50. The value of two diamonds of the same weight can vary greatly depending on the color, clarity, and especially the cut. There are very many things to consider when purchasing a diamond. Please call or stop by our shop with ANY question you may have. Our master jeweler has 35 years of experience in making sure you get exactly what you want.
