DIAMOND IN FOCUS
Natural diamonds are one of the hardest materials known to man. The stones form under high temperatures and pressure that exist only deep beneath the earth’s surface. Diamonds come in many shapes, sizes and colours with various characteristics.
The value of a diamond is based on a combination of four characteristics: Clarity, Colour, Cut and Carat Weight. Also known as the 4Cs.
CLARITY
Diamonds have internal features, called inclusions, and surface irregularities, known as blemishes. Clarity measures the absence of inclusions and blemishes. This helps gemmologists separate the real deal from imitations. Flawless diamonds are extremely rare - so rare, that it’s possible to spend a lifetime in the jewellery industry without ever seeing one.
CUT
We often think of a diamond's cut as the shape (round, marquise, emerald, princess), but a diamond's cut grade is really about how well a diamond's facets interact with sunlight. It is the most complex and difficult characteristic to analyse.
COLOUR
Subtle variances in colour can dramatically affect diamond value. Diamonds of the same clarity, weight and cut can differ in value based on colour alone. The colours of diamonds can range from colourless, yellow, orange and brown to almost black. Within that range, colourless diamonds are the rarest and most valuable. In addition, natural coloured ‘fancy’ diamonds can be extremely rare.
CARAT WEIGHT
A carat (ct) is a unit of measurement used to specify the weight of a diamond. 'Carat' is a diamond industry terminology for the weight of the stone. One carat is equal to 200 milligrams. The larger the stone carat the rarer. However, bigger doesn't always mean better – we’ve seen a massive uptick in tiny Pave diamonds.
We hope you loved learning more about dazzling diamonds. Looking for Diamond vintage or antique jewellery? Discover our collection here.
