Diamond Education
At Zabian’s Fine Jewelers, we believe that diamond education is the first step to selecting your dream diamond. The Gemological Institute of American (GIA) is the creator of the 4Cs and the International Grading System. The 4Cs are color, clarity, cut and carat weight. Each diamond characteristic is important component of the total diamond quality.
Diamond Color
Color is the natural body color of the stone. Diamonds naturally range in color from white to shades of yellow to browns. The lighter the diamond color the higher the rarity and value.
D, E: pure white, rare and a high quality
F: colorless, bright white and a high quality
G, H: near colorless, visually white and an excellent value
Zabian’s diamonds are D, E pure white, F bright white and G visually white
Color grades I-Z are not stocked at Zabian’s
Diamond Clarity
Clarity is how clean or clear a diamond is in relation to naturally occurring inclusions, flaws, feathers or blemishes. The diamond clarity grade is determined by the size, quantity, location and color of the inclusions. Inclusions are viewed under a 10x magnification. The fewer the inclusions, the cleaner the diamond, the higher the value.
FL - IF - no inclusions when viewed under 10x magnification and are rare and a high quality
VVS1 - VVS2 - miniscule inclusions are difficult to view under 10x magnification and are a high quality
VS1 - VS2 - minuscule inclusions are can be viewed under 10x magnification and are an excellent quality
SI1 - inclusions are often not visible to the naked eye but the amount, size and of inclusions vary. SI1 stones are hand selected by our gemologist to ensure a good quality and value.
Zabian’s diamonds are a FL-IF, VVS1-VVS2, VS1-VS2, and SI1. Clarity grades SI2, I1, I2 and I3 are not stocked at Zabian’s.
Diamond Cut
Cut is the balance of angles, proportions and symmetry created by the diamond cutter. There are most desirable dimensions for each diamond shape. The diamond’s table measurement is an important indicator of fine proportions and symmetry. Perfectly cut diamonds allow a diamond to radiate with the greatest level of brilliance, dispersion, and scintillation.
Brilliance is the white light that is reflected within then back out of a diamond.
Dispersion also know as fire is the rainbow of colors that is reflected within then back out of a diamond.
Scintillation is the play of light seen on a diamonds surface.
All Zabian’s diamonds are cut to the finest proportions for maximum brilliance and scintillation.
Diamond Carat Weight
Carat (ct.) is the unit of weight measurement used for diamonds. The shape of the diamond being round, pear, princess etc. and the cut proportions will impact the visual appearance or “size” of a diamond. Therefore diamonds that weigh the same may look different in size based on shape and measurements. This chart is for guidance and educational purposes only and does not represent actual diamond sizes. Depth/size may vary.
Diamond Shape
The shape of the diamond being round, pear, princess etc. and the cut proportions will impact the visual appearance or “size” of a diamond.
