diamond quality

Though the GIA only provides a concrete cut grade for round brilliant cut diamonds, there are some extra facets of diamond quality to keep in mind when opting for a non-round stone. One of these characteristics is the bow-tie effect. In this post we’ll provide some clarity around common questions we receive regarding this non-measurable factor! Continue reading →

Today we will be taking a closer look at emerald cut diamonds – and everything you need to know before you purchase! This comparison video of two emerald cut diamonds depicts two options that can better help a buyer evaluate what to emphasize and what to sacrifice when considering these special step cuts. Continue reading →

There are few things in the world that are better than a perfectly eye clean SI2 clarity diamond. SI2 clarity is typically the lowest clarity grade we will recommend to clients since in most circumstances entering into the included or "I" clarity range means that you WILL be able to easily detect imperfections with your eye without magnification. The SI clarity range still means you need to look closely to pick up on imperfections. However, we find that not all SI2 clarity diamonds are created equally. Majority of SI2 clarity diamonds have obvious imperfections and inclusions that can be seen without trying to see them. In this post we are going to go into detail on a few eye clean SI2 clarity diamonds and give you some insight on to what makes them eye clean.   Follow along with video and read the comments below Continue reading →

Out of the 4 C’s of diamond quality (color, clarity, carat weight, and cut), clarity is perhaps the most misunderstood term. The clarity of a diamond describes the natural imperfections, referred to as inclusions or blemishes, in a diamond. There are different grades of clarity which depend on a number of factors: size, number, position, nature, and relief.  While it is not necessary to have a flawless diamond, it is important to have one that would be clean to the eye of most imperfections and without any hazy or milky appearance.  We find that most of our clients are happy with diamonds in the VS (very slight) to SI (slightly included range) as these provide the best value and usually ensure a beautiful face up appearance. Continue reading →

Diamond fluorescence is one of the most misunderstood concepts in terms of diamond quality. Many people feel that fluorescence is a bad thing, but in reality a majority of the time, fluorescence works in favor of the diamond or has no effect. To understand a bit more about fluorescence, see this link from GIA that explains the concept. Basically, fluorescence is an inherent quality in the diamond and a diamond with these characteristics will glow a particular color when exposed to UV light most diamonds fluoresce blue while rare diamonds will fluoresce yellow, green, or white. Continue reading →

Color vs. Clarity

Out of the 4 C’s of diamond grading (Color, Clarity, Cut, and Carat weight), color and clarity are the two that are the most apparent and detectable to the human eye.  Color refers to the amount of detectable yellow or brown tint present in a diamond. It is caused by the amount of nitrogen atoms in the structure of the diamond. Clarity refers to natural diamond inclusions, which can be crystals of other minerals, black carbon, tiny internal breaks called feathers, clouds or groups of mixed inclusion types, etc.  We will try to give you a quick refresher and what to look for and expect when selecting your center-stone

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