Cut
The way a diamond is cut and polished is vital. It is the precision and delicacy of the cut that dictates the maximum amount of light the diamond will reflect. The better the cut of the diamonds, the greater will be its brilliance, sparkle, and fire.
When a diamond is cut to proper proportions, light is internally reflected from one facet to another and then dispersed through the crown or top of the diamond.
If the cut is too deep, then some light will escape through the opposite side of the pavilion, or bottom, of the diamond.
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If the cut is too shallow, then some light will escape through the pavilion, or bottom, before it can be reflected.
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A South African Ideal Cut Diamond is comprised of facets with the correct angles, which are perfectly placed to maximize the diamond's brilliance. It is the quality of the cut and its final polish that unlocks the hidden beauty.
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There are many shapes and sizes of diamonds. Whatever the shape or size, the cut is the only human element. A diamond cut to proper guidelines has greater value than one which is not.
At Diamond Expedition we feature South African Ideal Cut Diamonds. We guarantee these diamonds are cut to exact and precise proportions to give you the ultimate amount of reflective light and brilliance.
Color
Most diamonds look colorless, but there are many subtle shade differences and the closer a diamond is to having no color the more valuable it becomes. The Gemological Institute of America (G.I.A.) rates the body color in white diamonds from D (colorless) to Z (light yellow). D is the most valuable because it allows white light to pass effortlessly through it and be dispersed as rainbows of color.
Clarity
To determine a diamond's clarity, it is viewed under 10-power magnification by a trained eye. Most diamonds contain very tiny birthmarks known as inclusions. However, the fewer and smaller the inclusions are, the less likely it is that they will interfere with the passage of light through the diamond and the more beautiful the diamond will be. Diamonds, more than any other gemstone, have the capability to produce the maximum amount of brilliance. A diamond free of both inclusions and surface blemishes is very rare and therefore very valuable. The clearer the diamond, the more expensive and more valuable.
Carat-Weight
This is the weight of the diamond measured in carats. One carat is divided into 100 "points," so that a diamond of 75 points weights .75 carats. Carat-weight is the easiest of the 4 'Cs' to determine. But two diamonds of equal weight can have very unequal value, depending on their cut, color and clarity. Fine quality can be found in diamonds of all shapes and sizes. However, finding the diamond that will give you the most for your money is often difficult and should be done very patiently.
We hope this has been informative. If you have any questions please visit our contact page.
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