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.
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.
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.
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).
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.
