Engagement Rings – What do you need to know when choosing your diamond?

Many people are shocked when they learn that a diamond is actually pure carbon and in terms of its chemical make up is no different to the graphite in a pencil. So what makes them so special and why does everyone want them in their engagement rings? While chemically identical to graphite it is the structure of the carbon atoms that gives a diamond its alluring qualities. Diamonds have been formed by millions of years of extreme heat and pressure in the earth and the carbon atoms form a complex tetrahedral matrix which produces the transparent crystal we all know. Grading a diamond and placing a value on it is a highly valued skill and those who value diamonds are highly qualified and certified by independent bodies. The 4C’s is the internationally recognised way of classifying a diamonds rarity and therefore its value. The 4C’s are –cut, clarity, carat and colour. The cut refers to the proportions and angles of the diamond. The clarity refers to the inclusions of the diamond. In other words is it flawless are there slight natural imperfections? The greater its clarity the more valuable and rare it will be.

Aquamarine and diamond engagement ring

The carat refers to the weight of the diamond. The colour is a matter of taste but the truly colourless diamonds are valued for their rarity. It is the 4C’s you need to consider when buying diamond jewellery such as engagement rings. The cut is based on a scientific formula and is a highly skilled job which is concentrated in a few centres globally. Most diamonds are cut in Gujarat in India but other important centres can be found in London, New York, Tel Aviv and Amsterdam. The cut will ultimately affect the brilliance of the diamond. As a round diamond is capable of reflecting almost all of the light that enters they are the most brilliant of all. The clarity of a diamond is unique to each and is therefore graded using a recognised scale. This scale ranges from inclusions that are visible with the unaided eye to flawless. The clarity is a major contributor to a diamonds value. Diamonds can be found in almost every colour and this is also graded on a recognised scale established by the Gemmological Institute of America (GIA). This scale runs from tinted to absolutely colourless. The absolutely colourless are the highest grade, the most valuable and therefore the most sought after for use in jewellery such as engagement rings. The carat as already mentioned refers to the weight and not, as often believed a diamonds size. One carat is the equivalent of 200 milligram’s. As larger diamonds occur less frequently in nature they are more valuable. The mount and cut of a diamond will affect its visible size so this is therefore an important consideration when making a purchase.

For more information Contact 365-diamond.com