Carat is the term used to determine the weight of the diamond. A carat can be divided into points, where one point is equal to 0.01 carats.

It is important not to confuse carat weight with size, as the cut and shape of a stone can also alter the carat weight.

Diamond colour is graded according to the GIA colour scale, from D to Z. D is rated the most colourless, and therefore the most sought after and costly.

The size of the impurities and imperfections determine the clarity grading of a diamond. Clarity grades run from Flawless (FL) to Slightly Included 2 (SI2). Try to pick a diamond where there are no inclusions visible upon close inspection with the naked eye (usually VS2 or higher).

As the only characteristic not influences by nature, the cut if open to mistakes and bad practices. The cut determines the light dispersion of the diamond which has the greatest influence in overall appearance and sparkle.

Also known as a diamond grading report, diamond dossier or a diamond quality document. The report is created by gemmologists who evaluate the characteristics, value and identity of the diamond, which is confirmed within the certificate.

The contour of a diamond is essentially the shape of the diamond. It is also dictated by the ratio, which is the length divided by the width measurement. The bigger the ration, the longer and thinner the diamond shape.

Length (1.50) divided by Width (1.0) = Length to width ratio (1.50)

You don’t need to get the highest quality diamond to get something that is of equal beauty. The price will vary depending on the quality of diamonds in the market, the source of the diamond and where it was manufactured.

Remember, you are buying something that is a great vessel of value, which can be passed along for many generations.