A diamond is a symbol of beauty, as well as an investment – so you want to choose the right one. With so many factors to consider, it’s essential to know what to look for. Here’s a friendly guide on how to spot a high-quality diamond, so you can make an informed decision with confidence.
1. The Four C’s: cut, colour, clarity, and carat
Understanding the Four Cs is the first step in identifying a high-quality diamond.
Cut: The cut of a diamond greatly influences its brilliance. A well-cut diamond will reflect light beautifully, creating that sought-after sparkle.
Colour: Diamonds are graded on a colour scale from D (colourless) to Z (light yellow or brown). High-quality diamonds are typically in the D-F range, which are nearly colourless and appear very bright.
Clarity: Clarity refers to the presence of inclusions (internal flaws) and blemishes (external flaws). Diamonds are graded from Flawless (no inclusions or blemishes visible under 10x magnification) to ‘Included’. Aim for diamonds graded VS1 (Very Slightly Included) or higher for a premium quality diamond, with a great balance of quality and value.
Carat: Carat is the measure of a diamond’s weight. While larger diamonds are rarer and often more desirable, a high-quality diamond can be found in any carat weight. Focus on the cut, colour, and clarity first, and then choose a carat weight that fits your budget. Usually, the bigger the carat weight = the more expensive the diamond.
2. Certification matters
Always insist on a certified diamond. Certification from reputable, independent organisations like the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), the International Gemological Institute (IGI) or similar ensures that the diamond has been evaluated and graded by professional gemologists. They ensure the diamond you’re buying is exactly what you expect – nothing less.
3. Inspect the diamond in lots of different lights
High-quality diamonds should maintain their brilliance in various lighting conditions. Inspect the diamond under natural daylight, fluorescent light and in darker conditions to see how it performs. A well-cut diamond will sparkle consistently in different environments.
4. Check for symmetry and polish
Symmetry and polish can tell you lots about a diamond’s cut quality. Symmetry refers to how precisely the diamond’s facets are aligned, and polish is how smooth the surface is. If either of these are done poorly, it can indicate a badly-handled diamond, with unwanted qualities.
5. Use a loupe
A loupe is a small magnification tool used by jewellers to inspect diamonds closely. Use a loupe to check for inclusions, blemishes, and the overall craftsmanship of the diamond. High-quality diamonds will have minimal inclusions and a well-executed cut.
6. Compare multiple diamonds
You may not know what ‘good’ looks like immediately, so don’t settle for the first diamond you see. Compare multiple diamonds to understand what different quality grades look like. This will help you develop a keen eye for spotting high-quality diamonds.
7. Talk to an expert
If you’re unsure, don’t hesitate to seek advice from a reputable jeweller or a gemmologist.
Find your dream diamond piece
Spotting a high-quality diamond involves understanding the Four Cs, checking for certification, inspecting the diamond in various lighting conditions, and paying attention to details like symmetry. The Diamond Store only deals with high-quality diamonds, so you can be assured you’ll be getting a great diamond for your budget. Chat to our team of experts here, for any help you may need in your diamond-buying journey.
How to spot a high-quality diamond: expert tips
A diamond is a symbol of beauty, as well as an investment – so you want to choose the right one. With so many factors to consider, it’s essential to know what to look for. Here’s a friendly guide on how to spot a high-quality diamond, so you can make an informed decision with confidence.
1. The Four C’s: cut, colour, clarity, and carat
Understanding the Four Cs is the first step in identifying a high-quality diamond.
2. Certification matters
Always insist on a certified diamond. Certification from reputable, independent organisations like the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), the International Gemological Institute (IGI) or similar ensures that the diamond has been evaluated and graded by professional gemologists. They ensure the diamond you’re buying is exactly what you expect – nothing less.
3. Inspect the diamond in lots of different lights
High-quality diamonds should maintain their brilliance in various lighting conditions. Inspect the diamond under natural daylight, fluorescent light and in darker conditions to see how it performs. A well-cut diamond will sparkle consistently in different environments.
4. Check for symmetry and polish
Symmetry and polish can tell you lots about a diamond’s cut quality. Symmetry refers to how precisely the diamond’s facets are aligned, and polish is how smooth the surface is. If either of these are done poorly, it can indicate a badly-handled diamond, with unwanted qualities.
5. Use a loupe
A loupe is a small magnification tool used by jewellers to inspect diamonds closely. Use a loupe to check for inclusions, blemishes, and the overall craftsmanship of the diamond. High-quality diamonds will have minimal inclusions and a well-executed cut.
6. Compare multiple diamonds
You may not know what ‘good’ looks like immediately, so don’t settle for the first diamond you see. Compare multiple diamonds to understand what different quality grades look like. This will help you develop a keen eye for spotting high-quality diamonds.
7. Talk to an expert
If you’re unsure, don’t hesitate to seek advice from a reputable jeweller or a gemmologist.
Find your dream diamond piece
Spotting a high-quality diamond involves understanding the Four Cs, checking for certification, inspecting the diamond in various lighting conditions, and paying attention to details like symmetry. The Diamond Store only deals with high-quality diamonds, so you can be assured you’ll be getting a great diamond for your budget. Chat to our team of experts here, for any help you may need in your diamond-buying journey.
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