Diamonds do last forever so you should take the time to become familiar with the methods for choosing a good quality diamond. Most reputable jewelry stores will educate you on what to look for when selecting a diamond. We have listed the most basic information needed when making a decision on a quality diamond. We suggest you stay with a reputable jeweler when making such an important purchase. There are four distinct factors that combine to determine the value of a diamond: Color, Clarity, Cut, and Carat Weight.

The color grade of a diamond refers to how closely its body color approaches colorlessness. Most diamonds have at least a trace of yellow, brown, or gray body color. With the exception of some natural fancy colors, such as blue, pink, purple, or red, the colorless grade is the most rare.

The color grading scale ranges from totally colorless to fancy yellow. The differences between one grade and another are very subtle, as can be seen by the number of grades within any one category.

The rarity factor that indicates the degree to which a diamond is free of internal inclusions and external blemishes is referred to as "clarity characteristics." To determine a diamond’s clarity grade, it is viewed under 10-power magnification by a trained diamond grader. The clarity grade is based on the number, size, position, nature and color of the characteristics. While minor inclusions (VVS, VS, SI) reduce the cost of the diamond, they neither mar the beauty nor endanger its durability. Internally flawless diamonds are extremely rare and therefore command the highest prices.

The proportions and finish of a polished diamond determine its final face-up beauty. A well proportioned diamond will return most of the light back to the eye for maximum brilliance and dispersion. Sparkle is created by the facet placement and the surface polish.

The direction of light through a diamond depends on the quality of the cut.

1. When a diamond is cut to good proportions, light is reflected from one facet to another and then dispersed through the top of the stone.

2. If the cut of the diamond is too deep, some light escapes through the opposite side of the pavilion.

3. If the cut is too shallow, light escapes through the pavilion before it can be reflected, thus reducing brilliancy.

The metric carat, which equals 0.20 gram, is the standard unit of weight for diamonds and most other gems. One carat is divided into 100 "points." A diamond weighing 50 points = 0.50 carat (ct.), and is expressed as one-half carat.Diamonds of the same diameter may vary in actual carat weight depending on variations in their proportions.

Many people confuse the cut with the shape of a diamond. Diamonds are cut into many different shapes. The shape is largely a matter of personal preference and does not usually affect the value significantly.

For more information on diamond selection contact our sponsor, Borsheims, the worlds largest independent jewelry store. 120 Regency Parkway Omaha, Nebraska 68114 Phone: 402.391.0400  800.642.GIFT Fax: 402.391.6694