ABOUT DIAMONDS:

A diamond is the hardest known natural material.
The word "diamond" comes from the Greek term adamas, which means invincible.They have been used throughout the years as industrial tools and treasured as religious icons
About 49% of diamonds originate from Central and Southern Africa.

DIAMOND GUIDE (4 C'S):

A diamond's quality is determined by its grade. The grade is determined by its cut, clarity, color, and carat weight. Depending on these four different factors, commonly referred to by gemologists as the "4C's", the value of the diamond will also vary.
The following information explains how diamonds are graded and selected by jewelers.

Cut:
Cut in a diamond refers to its proportions and finish and defines how light reflects on its facets. The cut of a diamond and the proportions and distribution of its facets determine its brilliance and sparkle. Cutting and polishing diamond facets in the right proportion allow the facets to reflect light in the correct angle displaying brilliance, fire and scintillation. Cut is the only aspect of a diamond that depends on man. All other aspects depend on nature. When a diamond is cut too shallow, light leaks from the bottom, and the stone loses its brilliance. When a diamond is cut too deep, light leaks from the sides which also causes a loss of brilliance.


Color:
Diamond color is graded from D to Z with D being absolute colorless and Z being light yellow. Beyond Z, a diamond is categorized as a "Fancy Color";any naturally colored diamond with a noticeable depth of body color is considered to be rare. Red and green are the rarest, followed by purple, violet, orange, blue, and pink. Yellow diamonds are easier to find. White, black, and gray are not spectral colors, but they are considered as fancy diamonds. Colorless diamonds are the most expensive since they show more sparkle. Many diamonds that appear to be colorless have a small amount of color. However, a faint yellow, well-cut diamond with good proportions, will release the brilliance and fire of a colorless diamond, making a very beautiful stone.


Clarity:
The inclusions that appear in diamonds as small specks, lines, feathers or clouds are nature's fingerprints, making each diamond unique and distinct. All diamonds contain inclusions originally created during their formation in the earth under intense heat and pressure millions of years ago. As a result, flawless diamonds are the most valuable.
Diamonds that are absolutely clear are the most expensive. The fewer and less visible the marks, the more valuable the diamond. Clarity is graded with the most valuable and rare designation being flawless (FL).


Carat Weight:
Carat weight indicates the size of a diamond. A carat is a unit that measures the weight of a diamond using the metric system. Thus, one metric carat equals .200 grams or 200 milligrams of weight, and weight is indicative of diamond size. The word "carat" is derived from the Greek word keration meaning "fruit of the carob." Carob seeds were used as weights on scales in ancient times because they had uniform weight. The word "carat" evolved into the English language and is now used as the standard weight for diamonds. The other 3 C’s, clarity, color, and cut, also factor into the price of a diamond price, but carat weight has a significant impact on price as well.

If you have more questions about the "4C's", please click on the links below:

♦Cut Information
♦Color Information
♦Clarity Information
♦Carat Weight Information

DIAMOND CERTIFICATION:

A diamond grading report is a detailed explanation of the main characteristics of a diamond: cut, weight and dimensions. The certificate does not give the monetary value of the diamond; it reflects and evaluates the critical factors about the gem that affect quality, beauty and value.The certificate adds value to the stones and is recognized by all gemologists.
Diamond are certified by independent laboratories, such as EGL (European Gemological Laboratory).

DIAMOND CARE:

Even though diamonds are the hardest substance known to man, a diamond will scratch another diamond or other jewelry. Store diamonds in a fabric lined case or a box with dividers.
Avoid wearing your diamond jewelry while doing house work or any type of hard work, diamond points are vulnerable to chipping and even everyday activity can loosen a setting. Also, it is recommended not to let your jewelry get in contact with chlorine bleach.

Cleaning Your Diamonds:
Mild Liquid Detergent: In a small bowl, place warm water together with mild household detergent (avoid any with chlorine content). Brush your jewelry and rinse it under warm running water. Pat dry with a soft, lint free cloth.
Jewelry Cleaners: Use any brand name liquid jewelry cleaner, choosing the correct one for the type of stone and metal on your jewel, and follow the instructions given on the label.
Professional Cleaning: This is the best option. It is also important to have your jewelry checked occasionally.