How to Buy a Diamond

Tyler Kirkland

The 4 C’s Determine Diamond Grade and Value

• Cut• Refers to a diamond’s reflective qualities, not its shape• Angels and number of facets determine how diamond reflects light

• In well-cut diamonds, light enters from the top, reflects from one side to the other, and exists out the top.• In poorly cut diamonds, light enters from the top and “leaks” out the bottom.

• Clarity

• Refers to a diamond’s flaws (or inclusions)• Internal air bubbles• Surface cracks

• Diamonds range from Flawless (no inclusions) to included 3 (flaws visible to the naked eye)

• Color• Refers to a diamond’s color

• Colorless is most valuable, reflecting the most light

• Graded on alphabetical scale from “D” (colorless) to “Z” (traces of yellow or brown)• Fancy color diamonds do not follow this rule (i.e., blue, yellow, pink diamonds)

• Carat• Refers to the unit of weight by which a diamond’s measured• The greater the carat weight, the more expensive the diamond (all other characteristics being equal)

Determining a Diamond’s Quality

• Microsoft/Loop• A microscope or jeweler’s loop (10x magnifying glass) will

show any inclusions in a diamond.

• Diamond Tester• Uses light to verify that the diamond is real• Does not guarantee quality of stone, just authenticity

• Certification• Certification the quality of a diamond • Certificates should come from a reputable source• Certificates should cost up to $200

Buyer Beware of “Treated” Diamonds

• Filled with glasses to enhance clarity • Treated with heat to enhance color

• Used to turn yellow or brown diamonds into a fancy-colored• Color may change over time

• Painted for color to offset yellow color• Wears off quickly• Easily detectable