Separating your four C's from your elbow

Published Date: 13 Apr '23

Diamonds, they are all so pretty. Which one should I choose?

There you are, standing in front of a fancy jewellery store, admiring all the diamonds in the window with no clue of which one to choose. Enter, me, stage right. I'm going to share some tips and tricks on how to choose the best diamond for you. Diamonds are not only a symbol of love and commitment but also an investment. That's why it's important to choose the right one for you, whether you're buying it for an engagement ring or any other special occasion.

So, starting with the basics. When it comes to diamonds, there are four factors that determine their value, also known as the Four Cs: carat, cut, colour, and clarity. Let's break them down.

Carat: This is the weight of the diamond, and it's measured in carats. The bigger the diamond, the more valuable it is. However, it's essential to keep in mind that the carat weight alone doesn't determine the diamond's value. Other factors, such as the cut, colour, and clarity, also play a role.

Cut: The cut of the diamond refers to its proportions, symmetry, and polish. It's what gives the diamond its sparkle and brilliance. A well-cut diamond will reflect the light beautifully and appear more brilliant than a poorly cut diamond. There are different types of cuts, such as round, princess, emerald, and many others. The choice of cut depends on personal preference and style.

Colour: The colour of the diamond ranges from colourless to yellow or brown. The less colour the diamond has, the more valuable it is. The Gemmological Association of Australia (GAA) grades diamonds on a scale from D to Z, with D being colourless and Z being light yellow or brown.

Clarity: Clarity refers to the absence of blemishes or inclusions inside or outside the diamond. Inclusions are internal flaws, and blemishes are external flaws. The fewer inclusions or blemishes a diamond has, the more valuable it is. The GAA grades diamond clarity on a scale from Flawless (FL) to Included (I).

Now that we've covered the Four Cs let's talk about how to choose the best diamond for you. The first step is to set a budget. Diamonds come in different price ranges, so it's essential to know how much you want to spend.

Next, decide on the shape and size of the diamond. This will depend on personal preference and the setting you want for your diamond. If you're buying an engagement ring, you may want to consider the shape and size of your partner's hand.

Once you've decided on the shape and size, consider the cut, colour, and clarity. If you're on a tight budget, you may want to prioritize cut and clarity over carat weight and colour.

When choosing a diamond, it's also essential to buy from a reputable jeweller, like Penfold Jewellers, who can provide you with a quality certificate. This certificate confirms the diamond's quality and authenticity.

In conclusion, choosing the best diamond for you depends on personal preference, budget, and the Four Cs. It's essential to educate yourself on the different factors that determine a diamond's value and to buy from a reputable jeweller. With these tips in mind, you're ready to find the perfect diamond for your special occasion.

Pop into our store in Adelaide Street for a wonderful selection of diamonds and any for other jewellery assistance you may need.