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Cut
Cut describes the
proportions and angels of a diamond. Many people confuse cut
with the shape of a diamond. Although nature determines the
other three characteristics, it takes a master diamond cutter to
reveal a diamond’s true beauty. Diamonds are available in
various shapes including round, square, pear, heart, marquise
and oval but cut refers to the angles and proportions of a
diamond.
A well cut diamond
reflects light from one mirror-like facet to another and
projects the light through the top of the stone. The result is a
fiery and brilliant display. Diamonds that are cut too deep or
too shallow leak light through the side or bottom, resulting in
a lackluster appearance and diminished value.
Color
White-colored
diamonds remain the most popular, even though diamonds are found
in a kaleidoscope of colors. Diamonds are graded on a color
scale implemented by the
Gemological Institute of America
(GIA), which ranges from D, which is colorless, to Z. Color
differences can be so subtle that diamond colors are graded
under controlled lighting conditions and are compared to a
master set for accuracy. While truly colorless diamonds, graded
D, are treasured for their rarity, diamond color is ultimately a
very personal taste. AskBarnett Jewelers, your Master IJO
Jeweler to show you an array of color grades next to each other
to help you determine your color preference. |
Clarity
Nature ensures
that each diamond is as individual as the person who wears it.
Naturally occurring inclusions such as minerals or fractures are
identifying characteristics created while diamonds are formed in
the earth. Master IJO Jewelers use magnification to view
diamonds at 10x their actual size so these tiny inclusions are
more easily seen.
Inclusions are
measured on a scale of perfection, known as clarity, which was
established by GIA. The greater a diamond’s clarity, the more
rare and valuable it is. A diamond with an inclusion in the
middle or top could impact the dispersion of light, making the
diamond less brilliant.
Carat
Weight
Carat is a
diamond’s measure of weight, not size. One full carat is equal
to 100 points. A ¾ carat diamond is the same as 75 points. Since
large diamonds are found less frequently in nature, a 1 carat
diamond will cost more than twice a ½ carat diamond (assuming
all other characteristics remain constant). The cut and the
mounting can make a diamond appear larger than its actual
weight. Barnett Jewelers, your Master IJO Jeweler will
help you find the right diamond and mounting to optimize its
beauty.
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