BUYING TIPS :: The Four "C's" of Diamonds

CARAT

While Karat (with a K) pertains to the pure gold content of the mounting of your ring, CARAT (with a C) refers to the size of your diamond and is the measure of its weight. A carat is divided into 100 "points".

Size and weight alone do not determine the value of a diamond. For instance, it is very possible for a smaller diamond to be worth more than a larger one. The other three C's must also be considered in arriving at the cost of a diamond.

COLOR

Diamonds are found in nature in all colors of the rainbow, and some are very rare. The magnificent 44½ Carat "hope" diamond, for instance, is a sapphire blue.

Any variance from white or colorless not only affects the price, but the beauty of a diamond as well.

CLARITY

"Clarity" describes the various internal flaws in a diamond. These are the "fingerprints" of a diamond and no two are alike.

A flawless diamond, where no internal inclusions can be seen by a trained expert using a 10-power loupe, is extremely rare and very expensive.

The number and the type of flaws, and whether or not they are visible to the unaided eye, are factors in determining the price you pay for your diamond.

Keep in mind that minor flaws, invisible to the unaided eye, do not detract from the beauty of a diamond, but do affect the price.

CUT

The "Brilliance" in a diamond is one of its most admired qualities. The more fire it has, the more life it has.

This does not happen accidentally. It takes a master craftsman, cutting the 58 Facets along established ideal proportions to obtain a perfectly finished diamond. A small change in the angle of the 58 facets will reduce the brilliance dramatically.

MOUNTINGS

Whether you choose a traditional mounting or work with our goldsmiths to create a custom design, Brent L. Miller Jewelers and Goldsmiths will work with you to create that perfect ring of your dreams.

SHAPE

If your preference is other than the "Brilliant" cut (round), our selection includes exceptionally well proportioned "Fancy" cuts such as the Marquise, Oval, and Pear in our Masterpiece collection, as well as more exotic cuts such as the Emerald cut and the Heart-shaped diamond.