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Coming soon!Diamond Buying Guide
Say "I do" with a dazzling diamond that sparkles with the promise of eternity. But not sure where to start? Diamond and gemstone specialist High Bride Jewellers, in Bourton on the Water, takes us through their step-by-step guide to choosing the right diamond.
Always remember the 4 C’s; carat, clarity, colour and cut. The combination of these characteristics determine the value, rarity and beauty of a diamond.
Carat
This refers to the weight of a diamond. The word "carat" derives from ancient times when gems were measured using the weight of a carob seed. One carat equals one fifth of a gram. It can also be divided into 100 points. A third carat diamond or a 0.33 carat diamond weighs the same as a 33 point diamond. Generally, the larger the carat, the more rare and valuable the diamond.
Clarity
Most diamonds contain inclusions - natural identifying characteristics such as minerals or fractures. The fewer the inclusions, the greater the clarity and the more valuable the diamond. Inclusions are usually invisible to the naked eye.
However, their number, size and position can affect the flow of light through a diamond, causing some of the sparkle to be lost. Diamonds with inclusions that are visible to the naked eye are graded I1 - I3. Those with small inclusions not visible are graded SI1 - SI2, those with very small inclusions are graded VS1 - VS2. Those rare diamonds with no inclusions are called flawless (FL) or internally flawless (IF).
Colour
Although many diamonds appear colourless, most contain subtle tones of yellow or brown. The closer a diamond is to having no colour, the more valuable it is. Diamond colours are graded from D, continuing through the alphabet to Z. Truly colourless diamonds (graded D) are treasured for their rarity.
Cut
The cut indicates the physical shape of the diamond and refers to the angles and proportions in the stone, releasing its fire and sparkle. It is the only one of the 4Cs not determined by nature. The cut of the stone causes light to be dispersed and reflected from one facet to another. A well proportioned cut gives the greatest amount of fire and sparkle. If a diamond is cut too deep or too shallow, light escapes through the side or the bottom and the display will be less brilliant.
Shape
Popular diamond shapes include round, oval, princess-cut, emerald-cut, marquise-cut, radiant-cut, pear-shaped, and heart shaped. As with many jewellers, once you know what size, quality and shape of diamond you are after you can also create your own unique piece of jewellery. Alternatively, High Bridge stocks an extensive range of special pieces in yellow, white and rose gold, plus palladium and platinum.
High Bridge source their diamonds straight from Antwerp ensuring the best quality and choice, at extremely good value for money. To contact us, please click here.