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Diamonds
are composed purely of carbon, making them the hardest gemstone
in the world. A diamond's value is contingent not on only its
size and weight, but on its cut, color, and clarity, also known
as "The Four C's". At Donna Distefano, we recommend selecting a diamond that is accompanied by certification from a laboratory. These certificates detail the diamond's measurement, shape, clarity, color and
carat weight. |
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Cut:
A gemstone's cut determines the fire colored light
and brilliance of a diamond. The facets act to bounce light within
the diamond and back toward the eye, as do the overall proportions
of the stone. For example, the classic round stone has 58 precisely
aligned facets, giving it extraordinary brilliance, hence the name "brilliant-cut". The cut also refers to the shape. Diamond
styles available are: round, oval, pear, princess, marquise, or
heart-shaped (see chart).
Rose Cut:
Rose cut diamonds were introduced as early as the 1500's and were popular until the early 1900's. The shape of a rose cut diamond resembles the petals of a rose bud. The bottom is flat. The crown is domed shaped and the facets meet in a point in the center. The number of facets varies from 3, 6, 12, 18, to 24 facets
Color:
The more colorless the diamond, the greater its rarity and value. Many diamonds appear colorless to the untrained eye although they
contain slight traces of yellow, brown or gray. Very rarely in nature fancy
colored diamonds occur and although special and costly, they are not often
used in traditional engagement rings. At DDL we are happy to provide them,
if you are interested in these rare diamonds. Color is graded according
to the chart below. At Donna Distefano we recommend choosing from "I" color
or better. |
 
Clarity:
Clarity in the diamond refers to the quantity, size, position, nature and color of inclusions (minute crystalline irregularities found in the gem's interior). The common definition of 'Flawless' refers to the fact that no inclusions can be seen under a standard 10x power jewelers loupe, as truly flawless diamonds are extremely rare. Diamonds are graded from FL Flawless to I3. See chart. At Donna Distefano, we recommend choosing a VS2 or better.
Carat weight:
A carat is the gemologist's standard measure of a diamond's
weight. There are 100 points per carat; a half-carat diamond is
equal to 50 points.
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