The cut quality is the only diamond value factor that is the result of human input. This vital factor may be the most difficult to understand because it is the most technical, however gaining a basic understanding of a diamonds cut is important to make a wise buying decision. Cut refers to the proportioning, alignment and finish of a diamond’s polished faces or facets. Proper cutting enables a diamond to perform at its best and release its full potential for fire and brilliance. A well-cut diamond will be more beautiful and more valuable than a diamond whose cut quality has been compromised for carat weight.

*Note: The word “cut” is also used in reference to a diamond’s shape -round brilliant cut, marquise cut, princess cut, etc. It is less confusing to restrict the term “cut” to a discussion of the proportions, facet alignment and finish of a polished diamond.

The appearance and value of a diamond are impacted by its color. The rarest ones are the colorless diamonds. The color grading of diamonds is based on a scale which is a continuum of color intensities ranging from colorless to obviously tinted. The color scale ranges from D thru Z. The colored diamonds are known as natural fancy, and their grading is unique. Rare natural fancy colored diamonds come in Blue, Pink, Yellow, Green, and other colors. Determining a colorless diamond is done with comparison diamonds in a controlled atmosphere.

The subject of diamonds clarity is an interesting one. The impurities in diamonds create a “fingerprint” that is unique for every diamond. Another important thing to look for when buying the perfect diamond is the specs, which can have internal characteristics, known as inclusions, and external characteristics that are known as blemishes. A flawless diamond, one that has neither inclusions nor blemishes, is very rare. Most laboratories today use the same grading scale about diamond color and clarity, due to GIA (Gemological Institute of America), creating it in the 1950’s.

What is a carat? Carat is a measure of WEIGHT. The weight of a diamond is expressed in carats; this term comes from ancient times when gems were weighed against the carob bean. One carat is equal to 200 milligrams, or one-fifth of a gram.

When you buy a diamond, it will come with a certificate of authenticity, which authenticates the diamond as a diamond and explains its characteristics and laboratory grading. Expressions carry GIA, EGL, and AGS Certified stones. Along with your purchase, we will also include a Diamond Appraisal which you can use for insurance Purposes.