Diamond Guide | TASSEL JEWELRY

Diamond is a mineral made up of carbon. It forms beneath the Earth, about 150 kilometers away, where high temperatures and extreme pressures favor the crystallization of molten carbon, creating diamond crystals. These crystals grow slowly over millions of years and can trap inclusions of other minerals, creating the characteristic "imperfections" of diamonds. Subsequently, during volcanic eruptions or other geological activities, diamonds emerge to the surface. From there, they are extracted and processed to become the precious gems we know.

Diamond grading is based on four key characteristics, known as the "4Cs": Cut, Clarity, Color and Carat. Here is a detailed guide on each of these components:

Cut (Cut)

The cut of a diamond refers to how precisely it has been shaped and polished. A good cut maximizes the refraction of light through the stone, creating brilliance and sparkle. Cuts can range from "Excellent" to "Terrible". A well-executed cut is crucial to the overall appearance of the diamond.

Cut is the only factor among the 4Cs that is directly influenced by human craftsmanship. While two diamonds might have the same clarity, color and carat weight, cut is the determining factor in whether one diamond is superior to another. The cut of a diamond is defined by three fundamental aspects:

  • CUTTING PRECISION

    Cut precision refers to how the dimensions and angles of the facets are calibrated in relation to different parts of the stone. A well-executed cut optimizes the refraction and dispersion of light within the diamond, producing an effect of brilliance and sparkle that is visible to the naked eye.

  • SYMMETRY

    Symmetry concerns how precisely the facets of the diamond align and intersect with each other. Flawless symmetry helps ensure that light reflects evenly across the diamond. Any deviation from perfect symmetry can negatively affect the overall appearance of the diamond.

  • CLEANING

    The quality of the diamond's external finish is determined by the care with which the facets are placed and the details of how they are crafted. Good polishing ensures a surface without scratches or imperfections, which could otherwise interfere with the dispersion of light within the diamond.

Color (Color)

In nature there are different types of diamonds. In most cases, the most popular diamonds are white diamonds. The color of diamonds is evaluated according to the GIA (Gemological Institute of America) scale, today the reference scale for the whole world, on a scale that goes from D (colorless) to Z (colored). D is the highest grade, while starting from J a light yellow or brown color begins to be visible. Colored diamonds, called "fancy color," are graded based on the depth and saturation of the color.

Purity (Clarity)

During its formation a diamond is subject to very high pressures and temperatures which cause small imperfections or fractures called inclusions. A diamond is "pure" when viewed under a 10x loupe with no inclusions.

Diamonds with few or no high-quality inclusions are classified as "Flawless" or "Internally Flawless", while those with multiple inclusions are classified into categories such as "VVS" (very, very small inclusions), "VS" (very small inclusions ) and so on.

Carat (Carat)

Carat is a measurement of diamond weight, where one carat equals 0.2 grams. However, the value of a diamond is not only based on carats, but also on the other 3Cs. Larger diamonds can be more valuable, but only if they have a good cut, clarity and color.

The overall evaluation of a diamond takes into account all these characteristics.

Remember that choosing a diamond also depends on your personal tastes and available budget. So, when purchasing a diamond, consider the 4Cs together to find the perfect diamond for you.

If you need help choosing the diamond that is best suited to your needs, we are here to assist you. Do not hesitate to contact us.