Diamond 4 C's

Our staff feels that the best consumer is the educated consumer. Where do you start when there's so much information to take in? We know it can be intimidationg at first, but we break down our education into easy to read and understand topics that will leave you much more knowledgebale than the average consumer.

There are certainly many ways to approach buying a diamond. Approaching a new diamond is simple and easy, when you are equipped with the right knowledge. A quick first step is to memorize "the 4 C's" of diamonds: Cut, Color, Clarity, and Carat Weight.

Cut:

The cut of a diamond, in this context refers to the shape (there is another defining measure referred to as "cut" when referring to the quality of the stone itself.) The shape of a stone is a very important decision, each shape has its own properties and values and we'll break down each shape and its inherent characteristics and properties that distinguish one cut from another. The shape or "cut" breakdown is as follows:

Round: The round cut is the most popular and valuable cut of diamond. As its name suggests, it is cut into a round shape, this type of diamond is versatile, and can fit into many different types of settings. This stone also retains its value over time rather favorably when compared to other cuts. The round cut of diamond, as a result is a more expensive cut of stone, but it is a worthwhile investment as round cut stones have grown in value by almost 40% in the last year.

Princess: The princess cut diamond is a classic and popular choice as well. Second in demand only to the round cut diamond, the princess is a square-shaped stone that retains its value well. Relatively young, this diamond came to existence in the 1960's. The princess cut diamond is priced cheaper than a round diamond of the same carat weight. This is due to a few factors, the first of which is the princess cut diamond retains more of the rough diamond (about 80%) while the round keeps only about 50%. An excellent choice for value and fashion.

Emerald: The Emerald Cut is an alternative to the Princess cut, more elongated and flatter, the Emerald Cut. The value of an Emerald Cut diamond holds well and is still a popular shape for engagement rings and specialty pieces.

Asscher: The asscher cut diamond is world renown for its innovative and stylistic design. Joseph Asscher of the royal Asscher family first patented this cut in 1902 and held exclusive rights to this shape until World War II. The asscher is reminiscent of an Emerald Cut with rounded points.

Marquise: The marquise cut was a hugely popular shape in the late 80's. Since then the classically shaped marquise, which resembles a "diamond" shape has seen a decline in demand. However, the marquise stone is still a favortie of more traditional settings.

Oval: The oval shape has seen a recent revival for thgose consumers looking for a rounded diamond shape, but are looking for something a little more outside the box than the traditional round shape.

Pear: The pear shape can be compared to a "tear-drop" shape. This cut of diamond has come into prominence recently and is an excellent choice for an engagement ring setting. This cut is also slighlty cheaper per carat than an equally sized round diamond, making it a good choice for those looking to purchase a bigger stone for good value.

Heart: The Heart shaped diamond is relatively new and has seen a sudden rise in popularity, more fitting of specialty pieces and pendants the heart shape offers a whimsical and fashionabel alternative to the traditional cuts.

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