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Diamond
Grading - Caret
Carat
(ct) is a measurement of weight, not size. There are five carats to a
gram. A 1 ct sapphire is smaller in size than a 1 ct diamond because it
is heavier. There are 100 points to a carat, so a 50 point
diamond weighs 1/2 a carat or 0.50 ct
Diamond
prices are usually quoted per carat. As the carat weight
increases for the same quality of diamond, the price per carat
goes up. Also the
price per carat will jump as you approach the next higher carat weight.
The term spread
refers to the size a diamond appears to be, based on its
diameter. So a 0.90 ct stone with less depth might look the same size as
a perfectly cut 1.00 CT diamond, but has less brilliance because it is
cut shallow.
This is
why it is important to understand the basics of color, clarity, cut and
carat when reading a diamond grading report or listening to your TC's
Jewelry sales person When buying a diamond. All four factors influence
both the beauty and the price of a diamond.
A proper
diamond report or "appraisal" should give the following
information:
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1.
The date issued
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2.
Who issued it
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3.
Identify it as a real diamond
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4.
The exact carat weight
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5.
The dimensions including narrowest, widest diameter & depth
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6.
Proportioning--table and depth percentage
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7.
Color and clarity
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8.
Polish and symmetry
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9.
Girdle thickness
The final
test is the overall appearance. Every diamond will have its faults, and
even with major faults a stone can be very beautiful. If it is a good
looking diamond and fits your needs, buy it!
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