KNOW YOUR DIAMONDS
BEGINNING WITH THE BASICS - CUT
From a gemologist’s point of view, the cut of a diamond is what determines its brilliance.
A diamonds cut has no single defined standard. Rather it is a set of measurements which determine the relationship between its dimensions, finish and light performance. The diamond’s width and depth determine how light travels inside.
The more successful a diamond cutter is in balancing these considerations, the more
valuable the stone will be. Even a colorless and flawless stone can be significantly
diminished by a poor cut, because it will lack visible brilliance.
BEGINNING WITH THE BASICS - CARAT
The weight or size of a diamond is measured in carats (ct.).
A carat is 0.2 grams and there are 100 points (or 200 milligrams) per
carat. With an accuracy of 1/100,000 ct, the IGI scales provide a
highly precise diamond weight and this weight is specified on the
Diamond Report to two decimal points. Carat weight refers only to
the weight of the diamonds and not to the dimensions of a diamond.
1 carat = 100 cents / 0.200gms / 200 milligram
COLOR
Diamonds come in a variety of colors, some of them highly prized (pinks, blues, even yellow). However in a white diamond, the presence of a yellow tint will lower the price of a diamond. The less body color in a white diamond, the more true color it will reflect, and thus the greater its value.
Diamonds are graded on a scale of D (colorless) through X (light color). All D-X diamonds are considered white, even though they contain varying degrees of color.
CLARITY
Using a jewelers eye glass or loop at 10 times magnification, a trained eye can detect identifying characteristics which affect a diamonds clarity.The most common are internal flaws called inclusions. Some diamonds have external flaws, which are called blemishes.
The size and location of these characteristics determine how the diamond is graded on scale as: FL - Flawless, VVS - Very Very Small inclusions, VS - Very Small inclusions, SI - Small Inclusions.
Round Brillant
The most common style of cutting both diamonds and colored stones.
The standard round brilliant consists of 57 facets: and a typical length to width ratio of 1:1
Emerald Cut
The Emerald cut is rectangular with cut corners and includes broad and flat planes that resemble stair steps when viewed from above. The crystal clear view which this shape has to offer may allow for inclusions and color to be more pronounced.
Cushion Cut
The last century's oldest design (also known as 'pillow-cut' diamonds) is available either in a square or rectangular shape, and includes rounded corners and larger facets to increase its brilliance.
Princess Cut
A relatively new shape, the princess cut generally has 70 to 76 facets.
The ideal princess cut diamond should be perfectly square. More rectangular ones will have a length-to-width ratio greater than 1.10.
Marquise Cut
The marquise cut is an elongated shape with pointed ends. This shape stands on its own as a solitaire.
The ideal marquise-cut diamonds should have length-to-width ratios between 1.75 and 2.25.
Oval Cut
Longer than the round. this perfectly symmetrical shape has a larger surface area than a round diamond with similar weight.
Oval brilliants usually have 56 or 57 facets.
Pear Cut
The pear shape is a brilliant cut. which means it has exactly 58 facets.
The form is inspired by the crystallisation of a pure and perfect drop of water and is also referred to as a tear drop.
Heart Cut
The heart cut is a sentimental representation of love. The heart's distinctive appearance contributes to its popularity as a wedding and engagement ring setting.
When combined with romantic accents and rose gold, this feminine design looks stunning.
Radiant Cut
This versatile design combines the brilliance of the round, the grace of the Emerald cut, and the panache of the Princess.
Square shaped Radiants should have a length-to-width ratio between 1 and 1.05
CLEANING AND CARE
Diamonds have a tendency to develop a film build up of oils from lotions, powders, soaps, and natural skin oils which take away from their brilliance and sparkle. Chemicals in the air can slightly oxidize the mountings of precious jewellery depending on the karat grade used.
Diamonds should be cleaned so that the maximum amount of light can enter and return in a fiery brilliance. A little time and effort will go a long way to ensuring that your diamonds stay perfect forever.
POINTS TO NOTE
Store jewelry carefully in its original packaging or in a jewelry box.Avoid exposing jewelry to chemicals, perfumes, cosmetics or lotions as this could cause tarnish and discoloration.
Avoid wearing jewelry when using household cleansers. Separate your jewelry, or wrap each piece individually in tissue or small plastic pouches to avoid scratches.
CLEANING YOUR DIAMONDS
Soak your diamond jewellery in a warm solution of mild liquid detergent and water.Use a soft brush if necessary to remove dirt. Soft is the key - don't use a brush with bristles that are stiff enough to scratch the metal setting.
Swish the jewelry around in the solution, gently scrub away any residue or dirt, especially around the prongs or setting where build-up is common. Then rinse it thoroughly in warm water. Close the drain first, or put the Jewelry in a strainer to keep from losing it.
If the diamond and setting needs extra help, you can also use a wooden toothpick to very carefully push dirt away from the diamond and setting. Dry the diamond jewelry with a lint-free cloth.
Note: Never use toothpaste or other abrasives to clean precious metal or gemstones.