Welcome to Diamonds 101
Before you
start diamond shopping, you want to have an understanding
of what you're buying. This guide simplifies the four Cs
of diamonds - cut, color, clarity, and carat weight, so
you can select your diamond based on the same criteria
jewelers use to grade them.
After reading through this guide, you'll be ready to
choose the diamond that's right for you.
The cut
describes a diamond's light performance, dimensions and
finish. Shape refers to the overall outline of the diamond
when viewed from the top. Round is far and away the most
popular diamond shape, followed by squared shapes such as
princess, Asscher, and emerald.
The weight of a diamond is measured in carats. Since larger
diamonds are more rare than smaller diamonds, diamond value
tends to rise exponentially with carat weight. Read more
about carat weight and learn how to balance diamond quality
with the size of your diamond.
The most
important step in choosing a diamond is reviewing the
diamond certificate, referred to by diamond grading labs as
a grading report. A grading report documents the
characteristics of a diamond, like the four Cs. Before
purchasing a diamond, review a copy of its grading report,
as this is proof that it has undergone an unbiased,
professional examination.
Learn more about the diamond grading report.
Many people
think diamonds are indestructible, but they do require care.
Read how to keep your diamond sparkling, and securely set in
your ring.
Learning everything here...