The 4 C's — Cardow Jewelers

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	Jewelry Knowledge
		Ring Sizes The 4 C's of Diamonds Gemstones Birthstones

Jewelry Knowledge

The 4 C's define the quality and value of Diamonds.
With its radiant beauty and lasting value, the Diamond is one of the best known, most popular and much sought after precious stone. The rarity of diamonds is directly associated to its quality and value.

COLOR
Most diamonds of gem quality vary in shade from colorless to yellow. Colors can also range from intense yellow, blue, green, pink and red. These are referred to as “fancy colors” of which red is the rarest color. To determine the correct color, diamonds are graded on a simple system, beginning with “D” and moving down the alphabet to “Z”. Rare and expensive, colorless diamonds are graded D, E and F. Near colorless are G, H and I, and represent the majority of stones in fine jewelry selections. Color differences can be very subtle and are nearly impossible to determine by the untrained eye.

CLARITY
In order to grade the clarity of a diamond, it is necessary to observe the number, size, location and nature of any internal (inclusion) and external (blemish) characteristics. Virtually all diamonds contain inclusions, yet many are invisible to the unaided eye. A diamond is said to be flawless when it presents no internal or external defects when viewed at 10X magnification. Fewer inclusions increase the valuable the diamond.

CARAT WEIGHT
The weight or size of a diamond is measured in carats. A carat is 0.2 grams and there are 100 milligrams per carat. One carat is equal to 100 points. One half carat is the same as .50 points. Diamond rarity and price increases with the size of the diamond.

CUT
How a diamond has been cut and polished, and to what proportions and symmetry, is of utmost importance. These factors determine the life and brilliance of a diamond. For example, a round brilliant cut with its 58 facets perfectly and precisely arranged will directly be responsible for the amount of light that reflects within the diamond, resulting in a display of brilliance and fire. A poor cut can make a diamond look dull, glassy, bulky and too small. Of all the 4 C’s, cut is the most directly influenced by Man. Basic cuts include Round Brilliant, Oval, Pear, Marquise, Heart, Emerald and Square.