Getting a precious stone could be a daunting task. Think about what makes a particular jewel dazzle more than another or why nearly identical stones can cost so much different prices. At this point, evaluating jewels may be the most important factor. Based on the four Cs of precious stones which is the cut, color, clarity, and carat weight, a precious stone evaluation report offers a conclusive appraisal of a jewel's quality. You can make a better educated purchase decision if you are aware of these factors used in the evaluation of precious stones. What are the 4C's of diamond then?
To create a uniform criteria for assessing diamond quality, the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) created the 4Cs of diamonds. The total look and worth of a diamond are influenced by each of the four C's:
Diamond Cut Grade: A diamond's cut affects its light-interaction properties. Diamonds are cut to optimize their fire, brilliance, and sparkle at specific angles and proportions. Excellent, Very Good, Good, Fair, and Poor are the six cut quality categories according to the GIA diamond scale. Select a high cut grade diamond for maximum brilliance.
Diamond Color Scale: Diamonds can be colorless, light yellow, or brown, among other hues. D (colorless) to Z (light yellow or brown) is the range of colors on the diamond color scale. Colorless diamonds are rare and expensive. Hence, most people prefer diamonds with a slight color instead, either in G or H grades, because they look more beautiful and cost less.
Diamond Clarity Chart : Presence of internal defects called “inclusions” or external imperfections like blemishes determines the clarity of a diamond. Using 10x magnification, the diamond clarity chart demonstrates the category of the diamond as either Flawless (FL,no visilble flaws or blemishes), Internally Flawless (IF, no inclusions, but have blemishes), Very, Very Slightly Included (VVS1 and VVS2, inclusions are slight and difficult to see by the grader), Very Slightly Included (VS1 and VS2, inclusions can be seen but minor), Slightly Included (SI1 and SI2, inclusions are noticeable), and lastly, Included (I1, I2, I3, inclusions are obvious and may affect the brilliance of the diamond).
Carat Weight: A diamond’s carat weight is not a grading of its quality. It is a measurement of the diamond in terms of weight. Increase in weight does not mean that a diamond costs higher. Diamonds with the same carat weight may have a different price depending on its cut, color and clarity grading.
Making sure a diamond is certified by a reputable grading organization is one of the best ways of looking for the diamond meant for your engagement ring, wedding ring and other accessories such as diamond necklaces, diamond earrings and diamond bracelets. Each of the 4 Cs of diamonds is explained in a diamond grading report as assessed by a diamond expert. Diamond certifications from the American Gem Society (AGS), IGS or GIA give you assurance that the diamond you are getting is authentic of high quality.
Every grading factor has a distinct impact on a diamond's look and cost. Here's how to select the most affordable diamond using diamond grading.
While rarity and quality are not required to produce a brilliant diamond, high ratings on each diamond grading scale imply these characteristics. Diamond rarity and quality is not often a requirement to achieve a brilliant diamond. However, when a diamond has high ratings in all 4C’s, it becomes desirable. Some diamonds with a well-balanced cut, color and clarity gradings make a dazzling stone at a fraction of a cost.
The process of getting a diamond can be made less difficult and more enjoyable by being familiar with diamond grading and the different grades and categories involved. You can choose a gorgeous diamond that fits your needs and price range by concentrating on the four Cs of diamonds and applying a recognized diamond grading method.
Examine a few diamonds of similar grades to compare their prices and appearances before making your final purchase. Whether it's for a special gift or an engagement ring, this method will guarantee that you get the most for your money and select a diamond that perfectly captures your vision. You can feel secure and enthusiastic about your choice if you have a solid understanding of diamond grading scales. If you need assistance on diamond grading and certifications, our experts at Excel Jewellers are more than happy to help you. Contact us today!
