DiamondWave Education PagesThese diamond education pages are provided to assist you in making the best decisions when buying diamonds and jewelry. Go ShoppingMore EducationEducation Home About UsAbout DiamondWave Diamond EducationThe 4 C's of Diamonds - Carat, Clarity, Color and CutThe most important physical properties to look for in a diamond are referred to as the "4C's" - Carat, Clarity, Color and Cut. The concept behind the 4C's is that all of these qualities work together to create the best diamond for you. Diamond Cut and the 4 C'sCut refers to not only the shape of the diamond, but its proportions and finish, two key factors which determine the sparkle of the diamond. A diamond can only be cut by another diamond; therefore the cut is completely in the hands of a skilled diamond cutter. Carat Size and the 4 C'sCarat refers to the weight of a diamond as expressed in carats. The word carat originated from the carob tree - the tiny seeds of this tree are well known for their uniformity and consistent weight. Traditionally, diamonds and gemstones were weighed against these seeds until the system was standardized, and one carat was fixed at 0.2 grams. Diamond Color and the 4 C'sAlthough diamonds appear to be clear and without color, most diamonds have hints of yellow or brown. When referring to a diamond's color, this generally means the internal color of a diamond.
Diamond Clarity and the 4 C'sA diamond's clarity refers to how pure the diamond is internally in terms of being free of flaws. To determine a diamond's clarity, an expert views it under 10x magnification. The number of flaws found internally is called inclusions and external defects are called blemishes. Inclusions can be a result of mineral deposits, irregular crystals, flaws or cracks.
Anatomy of a DiamondPurchasing a diamond is one of the most exciting and expensive investments you will make so it is best to educate yourself about the physical properties of a diamond, particularly the anatomy. As your knowledge about the physical attributes of a diamond grows, so does your ability to purchase the best possible diamond as well as stay within your budget.
What Makes a Diamond Look So Beautiful?The qualities that make a diamond so visually appealing and beautiful are sparkle and brilliance. While the 4C's are very important, the quality of a diamond's Cut in particular is very important to creating brilliance, sparkle, and flashes of fire.
What is the difference between a Diamond Grading Report and an Appraisal?A diamond's physical attributes should be graded by a reliable independent lab such as GIA or AGS which issue a Diamond Grading Report or Certificate. This report does not give you the retail replacement value that you need for insurance purposes. You may also receive an appraisal or assessment of your stone from a jewelry store or independent appraiser. Both are important, but be sure to get the Diamond Grading Report rather than just an appraisal before purchasing your very special diamond.
Manufacturing the DiamondA great deal of planning, patience, wisdom and experience goes into transforming the world's hardest material into the beautiful diamonds. Diamond cutting is the art, skill and, increasingly, science of changing a diamond from a rough stone into a faceted gem. Diamond cutting requires specialized knowledge, tools, equipment, and techniques because of its extreme hardness.
Gemstone EducationTypes of GemstonesThere are so many different gemstones that come in various colors and variations that it would be hard not to find one to suit your specific taste. Learning a bit about each gemstone and its basic properties will help you in your search for the perfect stone.
Precious vs. Semi-Precious GemstonesThe rarest gems are classified as precious stones. These include diamonds, sapphires, emeralds, tanzanite and rubies. Precious stones are more expensive than semi-precious but they follow the same color, cut, and clarity rules for value. All other gemstones are classified as semi-precious. However, today these separations do not have much significance. It is more common to simply classify between diamonds and colored stones.
Guide to Gemstone EnhancementsThis guide provides information on the most common enhancement and treatment processes for some of the most popular gemstones.
Other EducationRing Guide: Finding the Perfect Setting and MetalYou have selected the perfect diamond; the next step is to find the perfect setting and metal! Diamondwave.com offers an array of classic and contemporary solitaire settings, three stone rings, engagement and wedding rings with side stones and more. Our settings come from the top manufactures in the world. Below is a guide that explains the differences in metal and settings.
How to Save Real Money Buying DiamondsThe insider secrets of saving money when buying a diamond.
What are Synthetic Diamonds?Synthetic diamonds are man-made stones. These stones were first produced in the early 1950's for mainly industrial purposes. Only recently have synthetic diamonds become available for commercial, retail purposes. Synthetic diamonds are produced in a laboratory and they essentially have the same chemical composition and crystal structure of a natural diamond. Their physical and visual properties are almost the same as a natural stone as well. Synthetic diamonds are referred to as "lab grown", "lab created", "created", and "man made".
Precious Metals: Gold, Platinum and Sterling Silver JewelryIn the creation of fine jewelry, there are several types of precious metals to chose from. The metals commonly used to make jewelry are gold, platinum, and sterling silver. By knowing more about these different metals and their unique qualities you will be able to make a better and more educated decision when purchasing your jewelry. Below you will find information about each of these metal types. |
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