Diamond Anatomy

Table: The flat top surface of the diamond that light enters through.
Table Size: The table’s width is expressed as a percentage of the overall diameter.
Star Length: The length of the star facet pattern visible when viewing from above.
Girdle: The outer edge or belt-like circumference that separates the crown from the pavilion.
Girdle Thickness: The measurement representing how thin or thick the girdle is.
Crown Height: The distance from the table to the girdle determines how tall or short it appears.
Crown Angle: The angle at which crown facets are positioned about the table, affecting light reflection and refraction.
Pavilion Depth: The distance from the bottom of the girdle, which impacts point (culet) to brilliance and fire.
Pavilion Angle: The angle at which pavilion facets are positioned about each other, influencing light reflection and refraction within a diamond.
Total Depth: The overall height from culet to table is expressed as a percentage of diamond diameter; it affects brilliance and fire.
Lower Girdle/Half Facet Length: Refers to individual lower girdle or half-facet lengths around its circumference; affects symmetry and light performance.
Culet: A small facet at the bottom tip of a diamond’s pavilion; it can be pointed or slightly rounded.

*The image and more information from the GIA can be seen here.

Carat Weight

The Carat Weight measures a diamond’s weight, not its size.

• Carat: One carat is equal to 200 milligrams, or 0.2 grams. 
• Points: Diamonds are often measured in points, with one carat equal to 100 points. For example, a diamond weighing 0.75 carats may be called a “75-point diamond.”
• Total Carat Weight (TCW): When a piece of jewelry contains multiple diamonds, the total carat weight refers to the combined carat weight of all the diamonds in the piece.

Balancing Carat Weight with the 4 C;s
When choosing a diamond, it’s essential to consider carat weight with other factors, known as the 4Cs: cut, color, and clarity. While carat weight is important, it’s equally crucial to prioritize the overall quality of the diamond. A smaller diamond with excellent cut, color, and clarity may appear more brilliant and beautiful than a larger diamond with lesser quality in these areas.

Carat Weight Affects The Diamond’s Size
While carat weight measures a diamond’s weight, it impacts its size. Generally, as the carat weight of a diamond increases, so does its size. However, it’s important to note that carat weight is not the only factor determining a diamond’s size. The diamond’s cut, shape, and proportions also significantly affect how large the diamond appears.

Diamond Pricing
Carat weight has a significant impact on the price of a diamond. As the carat weight increases, the price tends to increase exponentially, especially at the higher end of the carat scale. Larger diamonds are rarer and more desirable, raising their price.

Diamond Color

A diamond’s color is one of the most important factors when choosing a diamond.

The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) grades diamond color on a scale from D (colorless) to Z (light yellow or brown). The less color a diamond has, the more valuable it is.

Here are some key points to consider when evaluating diamond color:

1. Understanding the GIA Color Scale: The GIA color scale starts at D for colorless diamonds and progresses to Z for diamonds with noticeable color. Colorless diamonds are rarer and more valuable, while diamonds with a noticeable yellow or brown tint are less valuable.
2. Choosing the Right Color Grade: The ideal diamond color grade depends on personal preference and budget. Colorless diamonds (D-F) and near-colorless diamonds (G-J) are popular for engagement rings and other fine jewelry. However, diamonds in the near-colorless range (G-H) can offer excellent value while appearing white to the naked eye.
3. Considering Metal Type: The color of the metal in the setting can affect how the diamond’s color appears. For example, a colorless diamond may look more vibrant in a white gold or platinum setting, while a warmer-toned diamond might complement a yellow gold setting.
4. Balancing Color and Budget: While colorless diamonds are highly sought after, they also have a higher price tag. Consider your budget and prioritize the factors that are most important to you, whether it’s size, cut, clarity, or color.
5. Viewing Diamonds in Different Lighting: Natural daylight and LED lighting can help you assess the diamond’s true color, as some lighting can mask or enhance a diamond’s hue.

By understanding diamond color and how it impacts a diamond’s appearance and value, you can make an informed decision when selecting the perfect diamond for your jewelry piece.

Diamond Clarity

When it comes to evaluating a diamond’s quality, clarity is a crucial factor.

Diamond clarity refers to the presence of internal and external flaws, known as inclusions and blemishes. These imperfections can affect the diamond’s appearance and, consequently, its value. Understanding diamond clarity is essential for anyone purchasing a diamond, as it directly impacts the stone’s brilliance and overall beauty.

The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) has established a widely accepted grading scale for diamond clarity, ranging from “Flawless” (no inclusions or blemishes visible under 10x magnification) to “Included” (inclusions and blemishes are visible to the naked eye). In between these two extremes, several grades consider the imperfections’ size, location, nature, and quantity.

Diamond clarity is assessed using a combination of magnification and observation under controlled lighting conditions. Gemologists examine the diamond to identify inclusions and blemishes and determine their impact on its overall appearance. The location of the imperfections within the diamond can also influence its clarity grade. Inclusions or blemishes near the diamond’s center may be more noticeable and impact its brilliance.

It’s important to note that not all imperfections are visible to the naked eye. Many diamonds with slight inclusions or blemishes are considered “eye-clean,” meaning these imperfections are not visible without magnification. This allows buyers to choose diamonds with slightly lower clarity grades that still appear flawless to the naked eye, allowing for cost savings without sacrificing visual appeal.

Diamond clarity directly affects a diamond’s value, with flawless diamonds commanding the highest prices due to their rarity and exceptional beauty. However, for most consumers, a diamond with minor inclusions not visible to the naked eye offers an excellent balance of quality and value.

Diamond Cut

Diamond cuts blend personality and craftsmanship, transforming simple gemstones into expressive and unforgettable pieces. Each silhouette—from the timeless sparkle of a Round Brilliant to the sleek lines of an Emerald Cut—tells its own story and highlights the diamond’s natural beauty uniquely. Whether you prefer soft curves, bold geometry, vintage romance, or modern minimalism, understanding diamond shapes helps you discover your style.

Cut	Description
	Asscher: A square cut with stepped facets, similar to emerald but square.
	Cushion: A soft, rounded square or rectangle, known as the “pillow cut”.
	Emerald: A rectangular cut with cut corners, highlighting clarity.
	Heart: A distinctive, romantic teardrop shape.
	Marquise: An elongated, boat-like shape with pointed ends.
	Oval: An elongated, oval shape that makes fingers appear longer.
	Pear (Teardrop): A blend of round and marquise cuts, shaped like a teardrop.
	Princess: A square cut with sharp corners, offering great brilliance.
	Radiant: A modified brilliant cut that’s rectangular or square with cropped corners.
	Round Brilliant: The most popular, traditional cut, known for maximum sparkle.

Heart Cut
As the name suggests, the heart-cut diamond symbolizes love and romance. This cut features a distinctive heart shape with a cleft at the top, making it a meaningful choice for engagement rings and romantic jewelry.

Round Cut
The round cut is the most popular and classic of all diamond cuts. Known for its 58 facets, the round-cut diamond is designed to maximize brilliance and sparkle. This timeless cut is versatile and suits various jewelry styles, making it a perennial favorite for engagement rings.

Princess Cut
The princess cut is a square or rectangular-shaped diamond with pointed corners. This cut is known for its contemporary yet elegant appearance. With its clean lines and brilliant sparkle, the princess cut is a popular choice for engagement rings and other jewelry pieces.

Emerald Cut
The emerald cut is characterized by its rectangular shape and step-cut facets. This cut emphasizes the diamond’s clarity and luster, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate sophistication and refinement. The emerald cut is often featured in vintage-inspired and Art Deco jewelry designs.

Asscher Cut
Like the emerald cut, the Asscher cut is square-shaped with step-cut facets. However, the Asscher cut is more octagonal with more significant step facets, giving it a unique, mesmerizing appeal. This cut is ideal for those seeking a distinctive, vintage-inspired look.

Oval Cut
The oval cut diamond features an elongated, oval shape that creates the illusion of a larger size. This cut is favored for its flattering appearance on the finger and its ability to exhibit brilliance and fire, similar to the round cut. The oval cut is a stylish, unique, yet timeless diamond shape.

Marquise Cut
The marquise cut diamond is characterized by its elongated, boat-shaped silhouette with pointed ends. This cut is designed to maximize the diamond’s carat weight, giving the illusion of a larger size. The marquise cut is an excellent choice for those who appreciate a bold, eye-catching look.

Pear Cut
The pear cut, or teardrop cut, combines round and marquise shapes. It features a rounded end that tapers to a point. This cut offers a graceful, elegant appearance with a touch of whimsy, making it an ideal choice for those who seek a romantic and unique diamond shape.

Diamond Certification

Trust and authenticity are the cornerstones of every diamond purchase, whether it’s for an engagement, a gift, or an investment. Ensuring that the diamond you choose is genuine and of the highest quality starts with proper certification. Diamond certification provides an independent evaluation of a stone’s unique characteristics, giving you confidence in its quality, authenticity, and value from the moment you make your purchase.

We can get your diamonds GIA-certified. Book an appointment today!

Diamond certification is crucial in the diamond industry, providing an objective evaluation of diamonds. Whether buying for an engagement ring, special occasion, or investment, insist on a reputable certification.

When buying a diamond or precious stone, ensure it’s high-quality and authentic. Diamond certification, issued by an independent gemological laboratory, evaluates and identifies a diamond’s unique characteristics, assuring quality, authenticity, and value.

Diamond certification involves a comprehensive evaluation of the diamond’s 4Cs: cut, color, clarity, and carat weight, which determine its quality and value. It also includes measurements, fluorescence, symmetry, and any potential enhancements.

The Gemological Institute of America (GIA), a renowned gemological laboratory, is highly regarded in the industry for its strict grading standards and unbiased assessments. Diamonds with a GIA certificate are considered highly valued.

Diamond certification is a powerful tool for both buyers and sellers. For buyers, a certified diamond instills confidence in the quality and authenticity of the stone, ensuring they receive what they pay for. For sellers, a diamond certified by a reputable laboratory adds credibility to the product and enhances its market value, providing a solid foundation for a successful transaction.

It’s important to note that not all diamond certificates are created equal. Some less reputable labs may provide inflated grades or inaccurate assessments, which can be misleading for buyers. Therefore, it’s crucial to verify the credibility of the issuing  laboratory. By ensuring the diamond’s certification is from a reputable source, you’re taking a proactive step to protect your investment.