We've been asked so many times what's the best diamond to buy, and really there is no straightforward answer. Selecting a diamond is essentially based on your loved one's personality, personal preference of what the final stone should look like and your budget. To help you with the process, we discuss and describe the "Four Cs".
The “Four Cs” is commonly used language when identifying, describing and giving value to diamonds. The ‘C’ you place emphasis on when purchasing a diamond is based on personal choice. For example, if you were more concerned with the size of the diamond, more emphasis would be placed on Carat.
Carat
Carat is the metric unit used to identify a diamond’s weight. Large diamonds are more rare than small ones; therefore it is possible for one diamond to be worth much more than the sum of four smaller diamonds with the same weight. However, two diamonds that have the same weight may differ in price based on the other C’s.
For more info: http://4cs.gia.edu/en-us/diamond-carat-weight/
Clarity
Clarity is the relative absence of inclusions and blemishes. These are commonly found inside the diamond or on its surface. Nevertheless, clarity can have both a negative and positive effect on a diamond’s value. When you have identified minor inclusions, the diamond is less valuable; however it can be also understood as unique, special and affordable. Like fingerprints, two diamonds will less likely have the same inclusions and/or blemishes. Therefore, these inclusions/blemishes can make the diamond unique especially if they appear to be images or outlines i.e. birds, stars. However, a flawless diamond -- with no visible inclusions and/or blemishes would be rare and further much more expensive because diamonds are naturally created and the lack of inclusions and blemishes would be 1 in a few hundred thousand.
For more info: http://4cs.gia.edu/en-us/diamond-clarity/
Cut
Cut is the diamond’s display of brightness. When light strikes a diamond, it either reflects off or enters the diamond. When selecting a diamond, it is important to ensure the cut maximizes the diamond's sparkle and brightness. The 'brilliant cut' is the most common cut which maximizes a diamond's beautiful display of brightness.
For more info: http://4cs.gia.edu/en-us/diamond-cut/
Color
Most diamonds are nearly colorless with tints ranging from yellow to brown. The presence of color is the effect of chemicals like nitrogen during the formation of diamonds. Therefore, to find diamonds with tints of yellow or brown is likely. When diamonds are nearly colorless, it is identified as rare and valuable.
For more info: http://4cs.gia.edu/en-us/diamond-color/
The Four Cs play a huge role in giving you the final sparkle—therefore, they determine the price of a diamond. The more emphasis you place on one or two of the Cs, may require that you reduce the level or importance of another C.
The interaction between each of the above-mentioned criteria will be unique diamond to diamond; but like we said, the decision is ultimately a personal choice.
Contact us here to get the process started.