Carat

Carat is simply used to describe the weight of the diamond, 1 carat = 1/5th gram

 

Clarity

Of the four C’s Clarity is the one which plays the most important factor in price. Clarity refers to the diamonds ability to allow light to travel through it freely, and although inclusions are mentioned the actual imperfection could be because the diamond changed direction whilst forming and so disturbs the light from passing through. Below is a list of the grades used to determine clarity.

Colour

Most diamonds have a faint trace of colour, presently white diamonds are one of the most expensive. Deeply coloured diamonds are know as ‘fancies’ and are extremely rare as is reflected in their price. The general colour grading system that is used internationally is the one from the GIA (Gemological Institue of America) as shown below, generally D will be the most expensive.

Cut

When referring to the ‘cut’ of a diamond you are actually talking about a couple of different things, however, during the buyng process this will generally mean the shape of the diamond. However the term ‘cut’ actually takes into account things like proportion as well. Probably the most important proportion to remember is the ratio between the depth of the diamonds and its diameter. This should be around 56% give or take a couple of percent either side.

The shapes of diamonds have names, the most popular of which are listed below: