Beyond the 4C's

Most diamond buyers know about the 4 C’s when purchasing a diamond. The traditional method of evaluating diamonds was established by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) in 1957: Cut, Color, Clarity, Carat weight.

We'd like to introduce you to 6 more C’s when evaluating diamonds. Crystallinity, Country of Origin, Charisma, Care and Cost when deciding to purchase diamonds.

Crystallinity

Crystallinity is the quality of the gem including the treatment, transparency, internal and external brilliance. No two diamonds are alike. Each diamond is unique. Even if a diamond has all the same characteristics, a lot of the time they will look different because of the crystallinity variable. A diamond can look milky or more brilliant compared to a diamond with the exactly the same Cut, Color, Clarity and Carat Weight.

Country of Origin

Country of Origin is about focusing on where the stone comes from. With conflict diamonds being a concern, it's important to know how and where the stone was found. Diamonds that have cache from where or how they are mined is important to many consumers. For example, Canadian white diamonds and Australian pink diamonds have a strong presence in the marketplace because both countries are known as stable and peaceful regions with conflict-free mining practices.

Charisma

Charisma (in regards to diamonds) is essentially either the provenance, or history, of a gem or an "It" factor of a gem. It can be different from person-to-person. It can be the outline shape, it can be based on who used to wear it, or the combination of the the C's.

Care

Care is essential. It's important how you take care of diamond. A 1.0ct D Flawless compared to a 1.0ct D I1 can and should be taken care of differently. The flawless diamond will have much more value and we would suggest purchasing insurance on it.

Cost

Cost matters when buying a diamond. It's important to know your budget before looking at stones. Make a personal decision on what options are available to you. Rather than shop based on the 4C's. We think it's important to shop based on a comfortable budget, and to then see the options.

Knowledge is power when purchasing diamonds and precious stones. We are here to help you learn so you can find the best jewelry for your needs.