The metric weight of a diamond, the term originating in Ancient Egypt where the very uniform sized carob
seeds were used as a measure of weight. A diamonds value increases exponentially with its weight,
diamonds being traded in dollars per carat on the world markets. Be aware that the visual size of
identical weight diamonds can vary, because a three dimensional diamond can be cut shallow (appears
larger) or deeper (appears smaller). Ignore this fact and you could pay for a 0.50 carat weight diamond
that has the diameter of a much smaller stone.
Diamonds without any inclusions are extremely rare and therefore the most valuable. Diamonds in the 'Included'
quality range are less rare and less valuable. Precise grading can help you to compare prices, but
when mounted in a ring a Flawless diamond and a slightly included one can look very similar. Most
inclusions are only visible using a 10x lens, so selecting a slightly included diamond will give
you a saving you can put into improved color or increased diamond size.
From the rarest, colourless D grade, very subtle increases in yellow saturation occur, most people being
able to see a softer tint in diamonds at the K colour grade. D colour is the ‘best’ and of course
for an engagement ring sometimes only the best will do. Lower colour grade are not ‘wrong’ they are
simply not as rare and therefore cost less. Choosing a less rare colour grade leaves you more money
to increase the diamond size or clarity.
Regardless of colour and clarity, the irresistible fiery brilliance of a diamond is only unlocked by
skilled cutting of the diamond rough. Using a car as an analogy, the cut is the power, the engine
performance, a better cut diamond giving superior brilliance and light performance. This can have
a dramatic effect on the price of diamonds that are otherwise identical. Book a diamond consultation
to see the difference you can’t read on a certificate.
