UNDERSTANDING THE 4CS
When purchasing a diamond/engagement ring, it's important to consider all four of these factors to ensure you get a stone that meets your preferences and budget. The combination of these characteristics determines the overall quality and value of a diamond.
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1. CUT
The cut of a diamond refers to how its facets interact with light. It is determined by its symmetry, proportion, polish and reflective qualities. This affects the stone’s overall sparkle and beauty.
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2. CLARITY
A diamond’s clarity is measured by the visibility of microscopic inclusions and imperfections under 10–power magnification. If it has little to no inclusions, it is graded as pure and rare, aka flawless.
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3. COLOUR
Colour refers to the natural yellow tint found in white diamonds. The closer a diamond is to “colourless,” the rarer it is. GIA graded diamonds assign a letter grade from “D” (colourless) to “Z” (light yellow).
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4. CARAT
Carat is the unit of measurement used to describe the weight of a diamond, not necessarily its size. One carat equals .20 grams. Cut, clarity and colour help determine a diamond’s value, not the carat weight alone.
Create Your Dream Engagement Ring
Rod Valenz is a Melbourne based exclusive jewellery house founded by Rod in 1988. Specialist in custom diamond jewellery all created in house. Book an appointment to begin designing your bespoke engagement ring today.