Always buy certified diamonds
– Look for certifications from IGI, GIA, or HRD
– These are globally recognized, trusted gemological labs
Cut
– A better cut = higher brilliance and value
– Cut grades: Excellent, Very Good, Good, Fair, Poor
– Excellent cut = more sparkle and higher price
Colour
– Grading starts from D (colorless) to Z (light yellow/brown)
– D–F: Colorless
– G–J: Near colorless / slightly tinted
– K and below: Noticeable yellow or brown tints
– Beyond Z: Categorized as fancy colour diamonds
Carat Weight
– Refers to the weight and size of the diamond
– Higher carat = bigger diamond = higher price
Clarity
– Measures the presence of inclusions (flaws)
– Grading levels:
IF (Internally Flawless) – highest quality
VVS1, VVS2 – Very, very slight inclusions
VS1, VS2 – Very slight inclusions
SI1, SI2 – Slight inclusions
I1, I2, I3 – Visible inclusions, lower quality
Diamond prices depend on a combination of the 4 Cs
A diamond that excels in all 4 Cs is often called an “Ideal Cut”
Always verify the laser-inscribed certificate number on the girdle of the diamond for authenticity and traceability