Diamond Grading

Welcome to our guide on diamond grading. Diamonds are more than just sparkling stones; they are timeless treasures that capture light, beauty, and meaning in every facet. Just like the moments they celebrate, no two diamonds are exactly alike. Understanding the four Cs of clarity, colour, cut and carat makes it easier to choose a diamond that feels as special as it looks. This guide will walk you through each of these key factors, helping you appreciate the brilliance, character and lasting value of every diamond you encounter, whether you are exploring your next jewellery piece or simply admiring these extraordinary gems.

Diamond Clarity

Every diamond is one-of-a-kind, carrying tiny “birthmarks” that make it truly special. Formed under intense heat and pressure deep within the earth, these marks—known as inclusions and blemishes—tell the story of a diamond’s journey. Clarity is all about the size, number, location, and visibility of these features. Internal or surface-reaching marks are called inclusions, while external ones are blemishes. Understanding clarity helps you appreciate a diamond’s character and ensures you make a confident, informed choice when selecting your perfect gem.

Grade Definitions:
  • Flawless (FL) – No inclusions and no blemishes visible.
  • Internally Flawless (IF) – No inclusions visible but does have blemishes.
  • Very, Very Slightly Included (VVS1 and VVS2) – Inclusions so slight they are difficult for a skilled grader.
  • Very Slightly Included (VS1 and VS2) – Inclusions are observed with effort but can be characterised as minor.
  • Slightly Included (SI1 and SI2) – Inclusions are noticeable.
  • Included (I1, I2, and I3) – Inclusions are obvious which may affect transparency, brilliance and durability.

Diamond Colour

When most people think of diamonds, they imagine a clear, sparkling stone - but diamonds actually come in a range of hues, from completely colourless to soft yellows, grays, browns, and even vibrant fancy shades. Colour may be subtle, but it can make a big difference to a diamond’s beauty, character, and value. Expert evaluation under controlled lighting compares each stone to masterstones, ensuring its colour is graded accurately on the GIA D-to-Z scale. Understanding diamond colour helps you choose a stone that shines with both brilliance and personality, just like you.

Diamond Cut

A diamond’s cut is where craftsmanship truly shines. It’s all about how the stone interacts with light - its brightness, fire, and scintillation - and the careful arrangement of its facets. While shape refers to the outline, the cut captures the artistry behind a diamond’s sparkle. Round brilliant diamonds have standardized grades, but every stone, including fancy shapes like oval, pear, or marquise, is unique. The right cut balances proportions and personal preference, creating a diamond that’s not just beautiful, but full of life and personality - just like the wearer.

Diamond Carat Weight

Carat measures a diamond’s weight, not its size, with one metric carat equaling 200 milligrams. Each carat is divided into 100 points, allowing for precise measurement down to the hundredth. The term comes from carob seeds, once used by gem traders in the 1500s to balance scales, and today it remains the global standard. Certain “magic” carat weights, like 1.00, 1.50, and 2.00 carats, are particularly sought after. Sometimes a tiny difference in weight can make a big difference in value. Understanding carat helps you choose a diamond that’s perfectly balanced in beauty, brilliance, and personality.