When it comes to shopping for jewelry, so much of what drives our choices depends on the beautiful design of the piece itself. But it’s also important to consider the diamond within your piece to understand what makes it so valuable and unique. To help evaluate a stone’s quality, the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) established the 4 C’s: cut, clarity, color and carat. Understanding these characteristics and how they are assessed will help you make informed decisions as you consider your next diamond purchase. At Miami Lakes Jewelers, we want to help you feel confident in your diamond selection. That’s why we’ve put together a guide to the 4 C’s and how they can help you find your perfect diamond.
Cut
The shimmering twinkle of a beautiful diamond is instantly recognizable. With popular designs like round, pear or oval, a diamond’s shape gives it a radiant sparkle. But the cut is what elevates the shine of the diamond to make it stand out from the rest. A diamond’s cut actually refers to the facets of the stone and how well they reflect the light. Skilled craftsmanship is essential for sculpting a diamond’s proportions and symmetry, creating a glittering brilliance for each stone. With the right cut, a diamond can be shaped into a stunning stone. In contrast, a lackluster cut can take away from a diamond’s quality and ability to shine. In the end, how well a diamond is cut will ensure a lifetime of sparkle.
Clarity
Because diamonds are formed from the earth, no stone is flawless. They naturally contain blemishes or inclusions from the crystals trapped during the formation process. While these imperfections aren’t typically noticeable without magnification, note that diamonds with fewer will be of higher quality. More blemishes or inclusions can create a cloudy appearance, dulling the beautiful shine of a diamond.
Color
Another key value indicator for a diamond is its color. More specifically, its lack of color. While color distinctions are difficult for the untrained eye to notice, the GIA uses a scale to identify the grade. The most valuable diamonds are graded “D” and are as pure in color as a drop of water. Lower-grade diamonds are often a “Z” on the scale and tend to have a slightly yellow tint. You’re probably not going to notice the range of color when looking at diamond jewelry, so using the GIA’s guidelines is incredibly helpful for establishing value in your stone.
Carat
You’ve likely seen diamonds characterized by carats. This is the measurement we use to represent each stone’s physical weight. The largest stones are rarer and therefore cost more. But remember that bigger is not always better when it comes to diamonds. While a three-carat diamond may have a “wow” factor on the finger, always remember that the other characteristics of cut, clarity and color are equally important in determining the stone’s value. Don’t rule out the beauty of smaller diamonds as they actually can sparkle the brightest due to their radiance or clarity.
Find Your Dazzling Diamond at Miami Lakes Jewelers
We know you have a lot to think about when shopping for diamonds. At Miami Lakes Jewelers, we want you to find the perfect stone for your style and budget. When you’re ready to shop, or if you have any questions about the diamond buying process, visit Miami Lakes Jewelers at 6750 Main Street in Miami Lakes. No matter your budget or preferences, our team is here to help guide you and find your dream diamond.
