With each diamond, there are many characteristic to consider. All of the characteristics combine to determine not only the value of the diamond, but also the beauty of the diamond. The “4Cs” are listed on the right of the page, these describe the primary characteristics of a diamond; Color, Clarity, Carat and Cut. If you are Buying a Diamond, or Selling a Diamond, it is very beneficial to become familiar with the Diamond “4C’s”
The 4C’s cover the main characteristics of the quality of a diamond, but there are several other factors which help us determine the overall quality of a diamond, (fluorescence, Polish, Symmetry, Enhancements/Treatments, and more).
Fluorescence
Fluorescence, in a diamond, refers to the visible light that some diamonds emit when they are exposed to U.V. rays. Typically, the value of a diamond with strong or high fluorescence is lower than a diamond with faint or no fluorescence.
Enhancements
A diamond may have been “Treated” or “Enhanced” on attempt to improve the overall appearance of the diamond. However, these treatments usually negatively affect the value of the diamond. There are different types of treatments. Sometimes diamonds are “Drilled”. Diamonds are drilled in attempt to reach and remove internal inclusions or flaws such as carbon. Carbon appears in some diamonds as a black spot. Some diamonds that are drilled, are then “Filled” with some type of clear material.
Open Inclusions
An Open Inclusion in an imperfection in the diamond which reaches the outside of the diamond.
Ideal Diamond Buyers will inform and educate customers with their diamond needs and questions. Please contact us today with your diamond question. Ideal Diamond Buyers will buy your diamond, any shape or size! Check out our information for Shipping Your Diamond in for a fair estimate.
The 4Cs
The color of the diamond is very important. A colorless, or white diamond is preferred and will have more sparkle, brilliance and fire than a diamond with color. If a diamond is not white, one of these three colors are usually visible: Yellow, Brown or Grey.
However, if a diamond has a lot of color, and is grades lower that a “Z” in color (see chart below) then the diamond gets a grade of “Fancy” color. Fancy colored diamonds are fairly rare and are desirable.
The clarity of the diamond refers to the amount of flaws that are visible within the diamond. See chart below for more on Clarity.
On this chart, Carat refers to the weight of the diamond, which also determines the size of the diamond. One Carat is equal to 100 Points. So if we are describing a 75 Point diamond, we could refer to it as 75 Points, or .75 or ¾ carat.
Refers to the cut as to the shape of the diamond. There are many different cut shapes. Cut also refers to the proportions of any shape of diamond. Cut proportions are extremely important to the diamond because light reflection on a well-cut diamond is much better that a poor proportioned diamond.