Bespoke Diamond Jewellery Guide from DAB Jewellers
Bespoke Diamond Jewellery Guide
Welcome to DAB Jewellers’ comprehensive Diamond Information Guide. As leading experts in bespoke diamond jewellery, we understand the importance of selecting the perfect diamond. Let’s delve into the beautiful world of diamonds.
Diamond Chart / Calculator: Understanding Carat Weight in Detail
Carat Weight: What Does It Represent?
The term ‘carat’ has been used for centuries and originally referred to the carob seeds, which were historically used as counterweights on balance scales because of their fairly uniform size. Today, when we talk about carat concerning diamonds, we are discussing the size and weight of the stone.
Measurement and Significance
Metrics
One carat is equivalent to 200 milligrams or 0.2 grams. So, when someone says they have a 2-carat diamond, it weighs 400 milligrams or 0.4 grams.
Point System
Diamonds below one carat in weight are often referred to as ‘points’. Each carat can be subdivided into 100 points. So, a 0.50-carat diamond is the same as a 50-point diamond or a half-carat diamond.
Perception of Size and Shape
While carat weight indicates the size of a diamond, two diamonds of the same carat weight can appear to be different sizes. Why is this?
Cut Depth
The depth of a diamond’s cut can influence its appearance. A deeply cut diamond may carry more of its weight “hidden” at the bottom part, making the diamond appear smaller than its weight would suggest. Conversely, a shallow cut might spread the weight over a broader surface area, making the diamond appear larger but possibly compromising its brilliance.
The shape of the Diamond
The shape can significantly affect the perceived size. For example:
- Round Diamonds: These are symmetrical and can show their size accurately.
- Marquise or Oval Diamonds: Due to their elongated shape, they can cover more surface area on the finger, often larger than a round diamond of the same carat weight.
- Emerald Cut Diamonds: A rectangular table makes them look larger from the top view.
Setting
How a diamond is set in a piece of jewellery can also enhance or diminish its appearance. A bezel setting, for instance, might make a diamond appear larger, while prongs can offer a more unobstructed view of the diamond.
While we’re adept at breathing life into various bespoke jewellery designs, our expertise shines particularly in engagement and wedding rings. Indeed, 80% of our creations are symbols of love, commitment, and promises of forever. These are not mere trinkets but tangible memories that capture the essence of profound moments in time.
Every piece we craft at DAB Jewellers epitomises passion and precision. It’s more than just jewellery—it’s a piece of your story, crafted meticulously into a dazzling selection of art. Our bespoke creations reflect individual stories, dreams, and milestones, handcrafted with a touch of London’s enduring spirit.
A Deeper Look into the 4Cs of Diamonds
01Carat
Definition
Carat represents the weight of the diamond.
Influence on Value
While size can influence a diamond’s price, two diamonds of the same carat weight can vary widely in value depending on their cut, colour, and clarity. Hence, a smaller diamond of superior quality might be worth more than a larger one with notable imperfections.
Visual Perception
The spread, or how large a diamond appears when viewed from the top, can vary based on the diamond’s shape and cut. Therefore, visual impact and carat weight are not always directly proportional.
02Cut
Definition
The cut refers to the diamond’s reflective qualities and overall appearance. It’s not about the shape but how well the diamond has been fashioned from its rough form.
Influence on Brilliance
A well-cut diamond will reflect light within itself, from one mirror-like facet to another, dispersing and reflecting it through the top of the gem. If the cut is too deep or shallow, the light will be lost through the sides or bottom, resulting in less brilliance.
Grading
Ranges from Excellent, Very Good, Good, Fair, to Poor. Each grade has specific criteria about depth, table size, crown and pavilion angle, and more.
Popular Shapes
While the round brilliant cut is the most popular, other shapes like a princess (square), oval, and cushion (a square with rounded edges) are sought after. Each shape has its unique facet patterns and arrangements.
03Colour
Grading System
Diamonds are graded on a scale from D (colourless) to Z (noticeable colour). Most diamonds have hints of colour, often yellow, which can be detected by trained gemmologists and are graded under controlled conditions.
Value
Generally, diamonds with less colour are more valuable, though diamonds with a strong, vivid colour (like blue or pink) can also be highly prized as fancy-coloured diamonds.
Perception
The setting can influence the perceived colour. For example, a diamond may appear more colourless against a white gold setting than it would against yellow gold.
04Clarity
Definition
Clarity evaluates the size, number, position, nature, and visibility of internal (inclusions) and external (blemishes) imperfections.
Grading Scale
| Flawless (FL) | No inclusions or blemishes under 10x magnification. |
| Internally Flawless (IF) | No inclusions, only blemishes under 10x magnification. |
| Very, Very Slightly Included (VVS1 and VVS2) | Minute inclusions that are difficult to see under 10x magnification. |
| Very Slightly Included (VS1 and VS2) | Minor inclusions seen under 10x magnification. |
| Slightly Included (SI1 and SI2) | Inclusions visible under 10x magnification. |
| Included (I1, I2, and I3) | Inclusions visible to the naked eye. |
The Essence of Diamond Selection
At DAB Jewellers, we believe in empowering our clientele. With insights into the 4Cs and understanding other essential factors that shape a diamond’s aesthetic and value, we aspire to ensure that every diamond chosen reflects individual desires, personal stories, and cherished moments.
Navigating the intricate facets of diamond selection is no small feat, yet it’s a journey replete with brilliance, beauty, and unparalleled allure. DAB Jewellers takes immense pride in demystifying this quest. With our deep-rooted understanding of diamonds stemming from centuries-old knowledge about their characteristics and values, we have curated this guide to ensure you possess the essential expertise to select the perfect gemstone.
Whether understanding the significance of carat weight, unravelling the artistry behind a diamond’s cut, or discerning the subtle nuances of colour and clarity, each aspect intertwines to form the essence of a diamond’s allure. It’s not just about the size or the sparkle; it’s about the story each diamond tells and the story you wish to tell with it.
Craft Your Diamond Legacy with DAB Jewellers
Ready to illuminate your story with the perfect diamond? Dial us now at 07796 715949 / 07535 120893 or complete our online contact form. Together, let’s etch a legacy of brilliance and beauty.