An engagement ring

From solitaries to diamonds and precious stones of every conceivable cut and color, rings reflect the tastes and the personalities of the giver and the recipient. An engagement ring embodies a promise and unprecedented level of romantic expectations. It also symbolizes love.

The 5 C’s of diamonds

Carat and clarity

A carat is approximately 1/5 of a gram.

Clarity ranges from the best grade of IF down to VVS1, VVS2, VS1, VS2, SI1, SI2 , I1, I2, I3. Clarity expresses the number, size, placement and nature of inclusions. The fewer inclusions, the greater the quality and the value.

FL- Flowless

Shows no inclusions or blemishes of any sort under 10 x magnifications when observed by an experienced grader.

IF- Internally Flawless

Have no inclusions, but will have some blemishes.

VVS1, VVS2 -Very slightly Imperfect

Contains minute inclusions that are difficult even for experienced grader to see under 10 x magnification

VS1, VS2 -Very Slightly Imperfect

Contains minute inclusions such as crystals, clouds when observed under magnification

SI1, SI2- Slightly Imperfect

Contains inclusions such as cavities and crystals that are noticeable to a grader

I1, I2, I3 -Imperfect

Contains inclusions such as large feathers or large crystals which are obvious under magnification and may affect transparency and brilliance.

Cut and color

A diamond’s cut determines its brilliance and fire, more facets or surfaces means more sparkle.

Color ranges from the best grade of D, down to Z. The whiter the stone the close it is to a D rating. The best color is no color at all.

Cost

The better a diamond’s carat, clarity, cut and color  the more expensive it will be. It is easy to make a mistake and purchase a diamond of a lower value, believing it to be of higher value. Though it is very important to understand the purpose of a Diamond Certificate. A Diamond Certificate is a statement issued by an independent Gemological Laboratory where diamonds are evaluated by specific gemological instruments.