For years, the traditional grading system for diamonds has relied on the four Cs: Cut, Clarity, Color, Carat. Though these four factors are still relevant in the determination of the perfect quality of a diamond, they serve as a restricting criterion of what a diamond is valued at. Nonetheless, should you decide to invest in diamond jewelry, you need to have knowledge that is wider than just the 4Cs such that you get the value for your money and buy a diamond worth the money that comes with it.
This blog post will discuss A.A. Rachminov’s focus on quality, ethical sourcing, certification, fluorescence, symmetry and polish, and the impact of increased consumer knowledge on the diamond market.
Established Standards and the 4 Cs
The traditional diamond grading system uses the four Cs to identify, evaluate, and communicate diamond quality to consumers:
- Cut: This is the faceting of the diamond from its uncut to its finished form. It is an important parameter that influences the brilliance of a diamond. The effective reflection of light makes a well-faceted diamond sparkle which looks more brilliant and is pleasant to the eyes.
- Clarity: Inclusions and blemishes are the internal and external imperfections of diamonds. Diamond with fewer inclusions is more clear and is therefore more valued.
- Color: The highest quality and rarest diamonds are the colorless ones. The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) grades diamond color on a scale ranging from D (colorless) to Z (light yellow or brown).
- Carat: This is the carat weight of a diamond and it is an indicator of the diamond size. While larger diamonds are rarer and more valuable, size is not the only consideration that determines the value of a diamond.
Going Beyond the Basics
Origin: Ethical Sourcing and Diamond Quality:
Conflicts and human rights abuse usually result from diamonds mined from unethical sources. Nevertheless, the aesthetic value of diamonds should be gone beyond, and the stakeholders need to know the source of their origin, who benefits and if there are negative impacts of their mining. It is important to look for ethical diamonds to guarantee you get the best diamond quality. We at A.A. Rachminov treasures responsible sourcing and strives to ensure which diamond we supply is ethically produced. Ethical and sustainable supply chains are a proactive approach we take to make our diamonds one of the best qualities in the industry.
Certification: Reliable Labs and Diamond Quality
The certification of a diamond from labs such as GIA, EGL or AGS is essential as it assures that the diamond you are buying is exactly as stated by the dealer. It delivers evidence that the diamond is real, provides correct data on the diamond’s quality parameters, and is conflict-free. The customers are also able to verify the lab reports independently which is vital in making an informed purchasing decision.
Fluorescence: Its Impact on Diamond Look
Diamond fluorescence is the glow that diamond produces when it is exposed to UV light. The impact of fluorescence on the general appearance of the diamond may vary. Visual appeal is not affected by fluorescence in normal lighting. Nevertheless, some diamonds, especially those with strong or very strong fluorescence, might have a certain haziness or oily appearance, particularly together with lower color grade. It is essential to mention that although fluorescence may enhance the pre-existing haziness of a diamond, which was caused by the light scattering defects, it does not create haziness by itself.
Symmetry and Polish: Factors Contributing to Diamond Brightness
Cut of diamond is the overall designation referring to the quality of craftsmanship in the transformation of a rough diamond into a polished gem. On the contrary, symmetry and polish concerns the accuracy of diamond facets and the quality of their finish. Symmetry is basically how good the facets or sides of a diamond are making it uniform and identical to each other. If they are parallel and equal, the diamond will give higher reflections since more light is reflected by it. Otherwise the sparkle of the diamond will lessen.
However, polish is in relation to the smoothness of diamond’s surfaces. Consider it as the finish of a car; if it is smooth and pure, it will sparkle more. If, however, there are small scratches, or if it is not entirely smooth, it will not shine as much. Hence, good symmetry and finish make a brighter, more eye-catching diamond.
A.A. Rachminov - Passion for The Perfect Diamond Quality
We are consistent, dedicated and experts in providing the world jewelry industry with unmatched diamonds at AA Rachminov. Our diamonds go beyond standard quality because we believe that every diamond tells a story, and that story is a legacy we work to uphold.
We practice ethical sourcing - from the mines right through to the finished product. We make sure that each diamond complies with a strict set of criteria that include all of the stages of mining, cutting, and polishing. We assure that every facet is executed to absolute symmetry and polish, therefore, leaving you a diamond that is extraordinary, wonderful, and lovely.
Conclusion
The diamond industry has for sure changed. Abiding to the standard four Cs of diamond quality, in particular color, clarity, carat and cut is still necessary, but the comprehensive appreciation of the factors that influence the quality of diamonds in general is crucial, when putting money into diamonds. Ethical sourcing, certification, fluorescence, symmetry, and polish are key in defining diamond quality beyond the 4 Cs.
The quality standards are high in A.A. Rachminov’s and we take it as a priority to educate our customer and provide transparent information on every single diamond we sell. This means that you will be able to make more sound decisions in regards to your diamond investments by understanding the quality complexities in diamonds and how they impact the diamond industry. Buy from us today, and have an unforgettable quality of diamond!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the influence of the diamond cut over the brilliance and scintillation of the gem?
The diamond’s cut indicates how good it reflects and refracts light. A well-cut diamond generates value from light return, achieving excellent brilliance and sparkle; if the stone is poorly cut, it loses attractiveness.
What can be the impact of the inclusions and blemishes on the clarity grade of a diamond?
Inclusions are internal imperfections while blemishes are external imperfections. They may have an influence on the transparency of a diamond and its look. The more apparent and numerous the flaws, the smaller the assigned clarity grade of the diamond.