What 
Is
 Diamond? 

What Is Diamond? 

What Is a Diamond?
A diamond is a naturally occurring, precious gemstone composed of carbon atoms arranged in a crystal structure known as a diamond lattice. This unique structure makes diamonds the hardest natural material on Earth.

Key Characteristics of Diamonds:

Hardness – Diamonds score 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, making them extremely durable.
 
Brilliance – Their ability to refract and reflect light gives them their signature sparkle.
 
Formation – Diamonds are formed under intense heat and pressure deep within the Earth's mantle over millions to billions of years.
 
Rarity – High-quality diamonds are rare, which adds to their value and desirability.

Uses of Diamonds:
Jewellery – Used in engagement rings, necklaces, earrings, and other fine jewellery.
Industrial Applications – Due to their hardness, diamonds are used in cutting tools, drills, and scientific instruments. 

The 4 C's 

Diamonds are evaluated based on four key characteristics, 

known as the Four Cs: Color, Clarity, Carat, and Cut. 

These factors determine a diamond’s beauty, rarity, and overall value.

Color

The value of a colorless diamond increases as it becomes more colorless. The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) grades diamond color on a scale from D (colorless) to Z (light yellow or brown). Diamonds in the D–F range are considered the most desirable for their exceptional whiteness, while those with noticeable color are generally less valuable.

Clarity

This refers to the presence of internal flaws, or inclusions, and external blemishes. The GIA scale ranges from Flawless (no inclusions or blemishes visible under 10x magnification) to Included (inclusions visible to the naked eye)

Carat

Carat refers to a diamond’s weight, with one carat equaling 200 milligrams. While larger diamonds are rarer and generally more valuable, carat weight alone does not determine a diamond’s worth—other factors, such as cut and clarity, play a crucial role in its overall appeal.

Cut

The cut of a diamond significantly impacts its brilliance and overall visual appeal. A well-proportioned cut enhances light reflection and dispersion, maximizing its sparkle. The GIA grades diamond cuts on a scale from Excellent, Very Good, Good, and Fair to Poor.

The 4 C's 

Diamonds are evaluated based on four key characteristics, 

known as the Four Cs: Color, Clarity, Carat, and Cut. 

These factors determine a diamond’s beauty, rarity, and overall value.

The value of a colorless diamond increases as it becomes more colorless. The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) grades diamond color on a scale from D (colorless) to Z (light yellow or brown). Diamonds in the D–F range are considered the most desirable for their exceptional whiteness, while those with noticeable color are generally less valuable.

Color

Clarity

This refers to the presence of internal flaws, or inclusions, and external blemishes. The GIA scale ranges from Flawless (no inclusions or blemishes visible under 10x magnification) to Included (inclusions visible to the naked eye)

Carat refers to a diamond’s weight, with one carat equaling 200 milligrams. While larger diamonds are rarer and generally more valuable, carat weight alone does not determine a diamond’s worth—other factors, such as cut and clarity, play a crucial role in its overall appeal.

Carat

Cut

The cut of a diamond significantly impacts its brilliance and overall visual appeal. A well-proportioned cut enhances light reflection and dispersion, maximizing its sparkle. The GIA grades diamond cuts on a scale from Excellent, Very Good, Good, and Fair to Poor.

Diamond Shapes & Their Meanings

Diamonds come in various shapes, each with its own unique beauty and symbolism. The shape refers to the external outline of the diamond, while the cut determines how well it reflects light.

Round Brilliant
The most popular and timeless shape.
Has 58 facets for maximum brilliance and fire.
Symbolizes eternity, tradition, and classic elegance.

Princess Cut
Square or slightly rectangular with sharp corners.
Modern and sophisticated, offering a brilliant sparkle.
Represents boldness and contemporary style.

Cushion Cut
Square or rectangular with rounded corners, resembling a pillow.
Romantic and vintage-inspired.
Symbolizes warmth, romance, and charm.

Emerald Cut
Rectangular with step-cut facets for a hall-of-mirrors effect.
Elegant and refined, often chosen for its understated beauty.
Represents sophistication and confidence.

Oval Cut
Elongated, round shape with excellent brilliance.
Creates an illusion of longer, slender fingers when worn in rings.
Symbolizes uniqueness, creativity, and elegance.

Marquise Cut
Pointed at both ends with a boat-like shape.
Maximizes carat weight, making the diamond appear larger.
Symbolizes grace, royalty, and individuality.

Pear Cut
A blend of the round and marquise cut, resembling a teardrop.
Unique and feminine, with great brilliance.
Represents emotion, grace, and elegance.

Radiant Cut
A square or rectangular shape with brilliant-cut facets.
Combines the elegance of an emerald cut with the sparkle of a round cut.
Symbolizes vibrancy and confidence.

Asscher Cut
Square with step-cut facets, similar to an emerald cut.
Has an Art Deco aesthetic with vintage appeal.
Represents boldness, precision, and luxury.

Heart Cut
A romantic shape that requires expert craftsmanship.
A true symbol of love and passion.
Represents romance, devotion, and emotional depth.

Each diamond shape has its own character and charm, making it a personal choice that reflects individuality and style.