About Diamonds

Many goods are sold by weight, and diamonds are no different. Diamonds are weighed in metric carats (ct), with one carat equaling 0.2 grams. Diamonds are weighed precisely to the thousandth of a carat and rounded to the nearest hundredth. This precision can significantly affect the price, with fractions of a carat leading to price differences of hundreds or thousands of dollars.

Over a carat, diamond weights are expressed in decimals (e.g., 1.03 carats), while weights under a carat are stated in points (e.g., 0.83 carats is 83 points). Larger diamonds are rarer and thus more valuable per carat. For instance, a 1-carat diamond is worth more than four 0.25-carat diamonds of similar quality. The rarity of large diamonds makes them more expensive, not just in total cost but also in cost per carat.

What is diamond clarity?

Imperfections within a diamond are call inclusions. Inclusions are problematic because they interfere with light’s ability to pass through the gem, which makes the diamond less brilliant and therefore, less valuable. The international scale for clarity rates diamonds on the number of inclusions as well as the size and placement of them in the diamond. Clarity ratings range from flawless, meaning there are no inclusions present in the diamond, to level 3 imperfect, which means dark inclusions can be seen with the naked eye.

Diamond color and clarity grades are the determinants of the pricing of these stones. The diamond color and clarity chart can help you greatly to know the difference between the grades following the four C’s guide (Carat weight, Clarity, Color and Cut).

What is diamond grading?

Diamonds are graded in the categories of color and clarity. International grading scales have been developed to ensure that diamonds across the world match in quality and value.

White diamonds are valued for their lack of color, with D, E, and F being the most prized. G through L are less valuable, and M through Z are considered tinted. Colored diamonds are graded on color intensity and include yellow, brown, blue, green, and pink. These "fancy" diamonds can be as valuable as exceptional white diamonds.

A beautifully finished diamond dazzles with every facet showing the craftsman's skill. A diamond's proportions and polish determine how it interacts with light, affecting its brightness and scintillation. The most popular cut is the traditional round brilliant, accounting for over 75% of diamonds sold, offering the best balance of cut, color, and clarity. The most popular non-round cut is the princess cut, a square shape with pointed corners, favored for engagement rings.