Diamonds are cut in many varied and exciting shapes. Shape refers to the basic form of the diamond and is often confused with cut. Cut is the ability of these shapes of diamond to reflect light. Amongst the various shapes that include Oval, Brilliant Round, Emerald, Pear etc, Brilliant Round shaped diamonds accounts to 75% of the total sales of Diamonds all over the world.

Diamonds have these five characteristics which denote their true value

CLARITY

Every rough diamond has imperfections. It is imperative the percentage of these imperfections are controlled and maintained at a lower range. Clarity measures how ‘clear’ or ‘clean’ the diamond is. The Clarity scale is a measure of the severity of those imperfections or "inclusions" as it is known in the trade.

COLOUR

The basic law of physics states that white light, when refracted through a transparent surface in certain angle splits into a spectrum of 7 colours. The ability of the diamond to refract light is inversely proportional to the percentage of colour in it. The presence of colours in a diamond reduces its ability to refract light purely. Refraction of light is the main element that decides the sparkle of this precious stone though colourless diamonds are extremely rare to find.

This light dispersion, or color flash, however has no effect on the technical grading of color.

CUT

While colour and clarity are factors determined by nature, cut is a phenomenon that is directly influenced by man. It is by far one of the most important factors to be considered while choosing a diamond. The cut of a diamond refers to its proportions and not the shape. Though the cuts of a diamond are determined by the original rough diamond, a well-cut diamond is always better able to reflect light.

CARAT

Originating from the carob tree of Ceratonia Siliqua, Carat is the unit that represents the weight of the Diamond. Prior to the standardization of the weighing system for Diamonds, they were weighed against the tiny seeds of the carob tree known for their uniformity and consistent weight. One carat is equal to 0.002 grams. An increase in the carat weight indicates a rise in its price as well.

CERTIFICATION

Certification is an essential part of diamond trade. These precious gem stones are an important investment. Certificates affirm the authenticity of the diamonds. Certificates also influence the price of the diamonds. Many gemological laboratories give a report of their evaluation of a diamond that include the minute details and characteristics of a diamond that are invisible to the naked eye.

COST

Carat weight has a great deal of influence on the price of a diamond – more. Since larger stones are rarer in nature, they are more expensive as well. For instance, one diamond weighing 2 carats will always cost much more than two diamonds of the same quality weighing 1 carat each. The pricing can be attributed to the pricing guidelines and the channels of distribution used in select market areas. These market areas influence the policies behind setting the prices for Diamonds in different zones.