Diamond Education

   Gemstone and

   Jewelry

Welcome to Diamonds 101 

Before you start diamond shopping, you want to have an understanding of what you're buying. This guide simplifies the four Cs of diamonds — cut, color, clarity, and carat weight, so you can select your diamond based on the same criteria jewelers use to grade them.
After reading through this guide, you'll be ready to choose the diamond that's right for you.

The cut describes a diamond's light performance, dimensions and finish. Shape refers to the overall outline of the diamond when viewed from the top. Round is far and away the most popular diamond shape, followed by squared shapes such as princess, Asscher, and emerald.
 

The weight of a diamond is measured in carats. Since larger diamonds are more rare than smaller diamonds, diamond value tends to rise exponentially with carat weight. Read more about carat weight and learn how to balance diamond quality with the size of your diamond.

The most important step in choosing a diamond is reviewing the diamond certificate, referred to by diamond grading labs as a grading report. A grading report documents the characteristics of a diamond, like the four Cs. Before purchasing a diamond, review a copy of its grading report, as this is proof that it has undergone an unbiased, professional examination. Learn more about the diamond grading report.

Many people think diamonds are indestructible, but they do require care. Read how to keep your diamond sparkling, and securely set in your ring.

Learning everything here...