Diamond Grading
Cut
Refers
to the angles and proportions of a diamond. The cut of a diamond refers
to the exact proportions, quality of polish and the arrangement of a
diamond's facets. While nature determines a diamond's clarity, carat
weight and color, the hand of a master craftsman is necessary to
release the diamonds’ fire and sparkle. A diamond has facets that allow
light to enter it, become refracted, and exit in a rainbow of colors.
As illustrated below, when a diamond is cut to ideal proportions, is
carefully polished and has exact symmetry, light will then reflect from
one facet to another and disperse through the top of the stone,
resulting in a display of brilliance and fire. Diamonds that are cut
too deep or too shallow, lose or leak light through the side or bottom,
resulting in less brilliance, fire, scintillation and value.
Clarity
The fewer imperfections in a diamond, the better. A flawless diamond is extremely rare and valuable.
Color
Diamonds are found with a range of colors, from light yellow or brown through no color at all, the rarest.
Carat
A carat is a measure of weight, which also indicates size.
