HOW TO CHOOSE THE PERFECT DIAMOND

CUT STYLE

Start by choosing the cut style, as it will impact how to prioritise other aspects like carat, colour, and clarity. The most popular cut styles are round brilliant, oval cut, emerald cut, pear cut, cushion cut, marquise cut and asscher cut.

CARAT

Carat measures the weight of the diamond. It is important to strike a balance between carat weight and the other three Cs. Larger diamonds are often more expensive, but a well-balanced combination of these factors ensures a visually appealing and valuable diamond.

COLOUR

Diamond colour refers to the presence or absence of colour in a diamond, with the most valuable diamonds being colourless. The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) grades colour from D (colourless) to Z (light yellow or brown).

D-F (colourless): Diamonds in this range are considered colourless, showing no colour to the naked eye. These diamonds are exceptionally rare and highly valued for their purity and lack of colour.

G-J (near colourless): These diamonds may have a hint of colour that is difficult to detect without close inspection. These diamonds offer a great balance between quality and value.

K-M (faint yellow): Faint yellow colour becomes more noticeable, particularly in larger diamonds. This is still a good choice for those on a budget, especially if the diamond is well-cut.

CLARITY

Diamond clarity refers to the presence or absence of internal flaws (inclusions) and external blemishes in a diamond. The GIA provides a standardised clarity grading scale that ranges from Flawless to Included.

Flawless (FL) and Internally Flawless (IF): No inclusions or blemishes visible under 10x magnification. These diamonds are extremely rare and more expensive due to their exceptional purity.

Very, Very Slightly Included (VVS1 and VVS2): Inclusions are extremely difficult to detect even under magnification. VVS diamonds offer exceptional clarity and are highly valued.

Very Slightly Included (VS1 and VS2): Inclusions are visible under 10x magnification but are minor. Generally, these inclusions are not visible to the naked eye, making VS diamonds an excellent choice for those seeking good value without sacrificing much in terms of appearance.

Slightly Included (SI1 and SI2): Inclusions are noticeable under 10x magnification and may be visible to the naked eye. SI diamonds can offer good value, especially if the inclusions are not easily visible without magnification.

Included (I1, I2, and I3): Inclusions are visible to the naked eye, impacting the diamond's transparency and brilliance. These diamonds may be more affordable and suitable for budget-conscious buyers.

CUT

A well cut diamond is crafted with precision to allow light to enter and exit through its table, creating optimal brilliance and fire.

Diamonds are typically cut in three main styles: brilliant, step or mixed. Brilliant cuts feature triangular and kite-shaped facets for enhanced light reflection, step cuts feature rectangular facets for a distinctive, elegant appearance, and mixed cuts combine elements of both styles.

The cut is assessed for visual impact, proportion balance, durability, polish, and symmetry, all of which contribute to the overall quality and beauty of the diamond.