What is a Diamond?

There are many different gems found on the earth, but the diamond is sought after like no other.  Unlike any other gemstone, diamonds are composed of only one element, carbon.  (99.95%) Formed deep below Earth's crust, with the perfect marriage of extreme pressure and high temperature, the crystals come together to form the hardest substance known to man, the diamond.  

When first discovered, these rare gems were worn un-cut by royalty and the elite upper class. The diamonds were not only a symbol for wealth and status, but they were also believed to give power.  Over time it was discovered that these rare gems could be cut in such a way to reflect light back to the observer.  As technology progressed, the cutting of diamonds became not only a science, but also a work of art. 

A beautifully finished diamond is dazzling with the facets displaying a color symphony when interacting with light.  When choosing your diamond, consider the information below to help guide your selection process.

Clarity:

Most diamonds have clarity characteristics.  Each diamonds placement of characteristics is as unique as a person's fingerprints.  Clarity is graded on a chart from flawless (FL) considered extremely rare, to included (I).  The clarity grade has a considerable impact on a diamond's value. 

Color:

Diamonds are formed in a wide variety of colors. For example: Blue, Red, Green, Pink, Yellow, and Brown are just some of the rare fancy colors in which they are found.  Among the normal color range, colorless diamonds are the rarest and considered the most valuable. The normal color range is graded on a scale from D (showing the least amount of color) to Z (displaying the most amount of color.)

Cut:

A diamond's cut has a major impact on the diamond's appearance.  A poorly cut diamond does not display the sparkle that is normally associated with a high quality gem. However, when a diamond is well cut, the natural beauty is revealed with a display of light.

Carat:

A diamond's weight is measured by carats (cts). A carat is made up of 100 points. (pts)  Diamonds weighing in over 1.00ct or 100 pts are considered even more rare and thus, value increases.