While we have mentioned the collective importance of the Cs, let us look closely at their details and understand why each one of them is necessary.
Diamond
THE 4 C’s of a DIAMOND
The 4 Cs of a diamond are carat, clarity, color, and cut. These 4 Cs decide the purity and exceptionality of diamond jewellery. They matter a lot to determine how valuable a diamond currently is and how much it will be in the years to come. While the 4 Cs are an integral part of deciding its worth, we need to pay some heed to the fifth C, which is just as important as the rest.
THE 5th C’s of a DIAMOND
Contrary to the belief in the 4 Cs, consider the 5th C as certification, which helps you understand the importance of having a certificate for your stone. So, if you plan to get a diamond article, be sure to ask for its certification as it can aid in correct decision-making when trying to make a purchase.
WHY ARE THE 5 C’S SO IMPORTANT?
WHAT IS CARAT & WHY IS IT IMPORTANT?
Before we get into the details, let us first understand what carat is. Carat serves as the measurement of the diamond, representing the actual size of the stone. Even though a larger stone does not always determine its value, it remains one of the most crucial factors when highlighting the worth and value of the diamonds.
So, the question is, how do you measure it? Diamonds are measured in points, and for every 100 points, it makes 1 carat. So let us say you have 40 points, you will have 0.40 carats. Sometimes, diamonds with lesser points can be more precious. It all depends on how it ticks all the Cs on the list.
Understanding the importance of diamonds clarity
DIAMONDS CLARITY
The second C is known as clarity. How well light passes through diamonds decides its clarity. Unlike other regular gemstones, diamonds can bend light passing through them to a higher degree, making them rare.
The smoother the passing of light through diamonds, the rarer and more valuable it becomes. While the naked eye cannot always perceive the difference, clarity can drastically increase or decrease the diamond’s value.
COLOUR & YOUR DIAMONDS
Color is the third C. So, why is color important? What colors make a diamond more valuable than others? The colors of a diamond tend to vary but, it is mostly because they have a structural defect that causes them to get discolored. The purity of a diamond is determined by its transparency. The more transparent a diamond is, the more valuable it is.
THE IMPORTANCE OF THE CUT OF YOUR DIAMOND
A diamond cut. One of the major factors deciding its beauty. A diamonds cut is the fourth C and, it’s all about the looks. Cuts also matter because they aid in light passing through it in a better way. The better the cut, the more the light reflects and gives it that signature diamond sparkle that makes them unique. Some common diamonds cuts are round, emerald, and princess.
THE GROWING IMPORTANCE OF YOUR DIAMOND CERTIFICATE
The fifth and final C is known as the certificate. One of the important factors while deciding to buy diamonds is knowing if your seller is willing to provide you a certificate for its value and authenticity. Some jewelers might not disclose the actual value of the diamond and sell it for a higher price. Always make sure your jeweler provides certification for the exact value of your stone.
Certification can be provided by your jeweler through labs such as GIA, HID, IGI, CIBJO, and anchor certificates. Certification is necessary, so make sure you go to a jeweler, that can provide you with one for safety, security, and authenticity.
When buying any piece of diamond jewellery, be sure to familiarise yourself with the 4 C’s of a diamond and also become familiar with the leading diamond labs who will certify your diamonds. This will put you in a much better position when it comes to shopping around with jewellers. If you would like more information on the importance and role of the 5 C’s mentioned above, please get in touch with our team of diamonds’ experts here at Portfolio.