How to choose a diamond
The Timeless Allure of Natural Diamonds: Characteristics, Evaluation, and Expert Advice
When it comes to precious stones, there's one name that shines above all others: the diamond. It's not only one of the most precious and coveted gems in the world, it's also an eternal symbol of love, strength, and perfection. As a certified jeweler by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) and a diamond expert, I want to take you on a fascinating journey into the heart of this extraordinary stone.
What is a natural diamond?
A natural diamond is a miracle of nature. It forms in the Earth's core, hundreds of kilometers deep, under extremely high pressure and temperatures. After millions, sometimes billions, of years, these pure carbon crystals reach the surface through volcanic eruptions. Every diamond is unique, with a unique geological history that makes it special.
Unlike synthetic diamonds, which are created in a laboratory in just a few weeks, natural diamonds bring with them the allure of antiquity, the uniqueness of nature, and an authentic beauty that is impossible to replicate artificially.
The 4 Cs: The Heart of Diamond Valuation
When evaluating a diamond, there are four fundamental criteria to consider: the famous "4 Cs." They are Cut, Color, Clarity, and Carat. These elements determine the value, brilliance, and uniqueness of each stone.
1. Cut – The Cut
Cut is the only parameter that depends on the hand of man. We're not talking about the shape (round, oval, princess, etc.), but the precision with which the diamond was cut to reflect light. An excellent cut allows light to enter the stone, reflect on the internal facets, and emerge with a unique glow: what we call "fire" and "brilliance."
A diamond with a perfect cut captures the eye from any angle. Conversely, a mediocre or poor cut makes even the largest stone less captivating. For this reason, cut is often considered the most important C.
2. Color – The Color
The most valuable natural diamonds are completely colorless. The international GIA scale ranges from D (completely colorless) to Z (visible yellow or light brown colors). The closer a diamond is to the letter D, the rarer and more valuable it is.
However, there are also fancy-colored diamonds, that is, naturally colored diamonds (pink, blue, intense yellow), which can be incredibly rare and desirable, sometimes even more so than perfect whites.
3. Clarity – Purity
Clarity refers to the presence of inclusions (internal imperfections) or blemishes (external imperfections). The GIA scale ranges from FL (Flawless) to I (Included, with inclusions visible to the naked eye). Most diamonds contain small inclusions that do not detract from their beauty but do affect their value.
An expert gemologist can recognize these characteristics under a microscope and advise you on the best compromise between aesthetics and price. Very often, a VS (Very Slightly Included) diamond appears flawless to the human eye, maintaining an excellent quality-price ratio.
4. Carat – The Carat
The carat measures the weight of the diamond. One carat equals 0.20 grams. The higher the carat, the greater the size and, in general, the value of the diamond. However, two diamonds of the same carat can have very different values if their cut, color, and clarity vary.
For this reason, choosing a diamond does not always mean looking for the largest, but the brightest, the most harmonious, the most suitable for the person who will wear it.
Beauty That Tells a Story
Every diamond tells a story. An engagement ring, a necklace given for an anniversary, a pair of earrings chosen for a graduation: these gems become indelible symbols of the most important moments in our lives.
We, who have been jewelers for generations here in Ostia, know this well. We've seen families return after thirty years to tell us that that diamond, chosen with love, has become part of their story. There is nothing more precious.
How to Choose the Perfect Diamond
When choosing a diamond, don't just look at the price. Look at the light it reflects, the sensation it conveys, the emotion it evokes. A good jeweler will be able to guide you through the 4 Cs, advising you with honesty and passion.
In our workshop, we customize each creation, adapting it to the client's tastes and budget. We believe that every person deserves a unique piece of jewelry, just like a diamond: unrepeatable, authentic, timeless.
Your diamond, unique like you
If you're thinking of purchasing a diamond, or simply want to learn more, visit us at our historic jewelry store in Ostia. Simone, a GIA-certified gemologist, and Teresa, heir to a long tradition of craftsmanship, will be happy to welcome you and tell you about the beauty of these extraordinary gems.
Bring your story with you. We'll put our heart and soul into it.
Discover the diamond that speaks to you.