DIAMONDS 101
Overview
The Elizabeth Diamond Company (EDC) provides comprehensive, up-to-date diamond education based on standards set by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA). Diamonds are natural, rare, and beautiful—but understanding their quality and grading can be complex. EDC aims to simplify the process and make diamond buying both informed and enjoyable.
The 4C’s of Diamonds
1. Cut
Cut Shape: Refers to the diamond’s physical shape (e.g., round, princess, cushion, emerald).
Cut Quality: Determines how well a diamond reflects light (sparkle). Most important factor in beauty and value.
Cut Grading Factors:
Polish: Smoothness of surface.
Symmetry: Alignment of facets.
Proportions: Angles and dimensions.
Light Performance: Brightness, fire, and scintillation.
2. Color
Graded D (colorless) to Z (light yellow/brown).
Most engagement diamonds are colorless to near-colorless.
Less visible to the untrained eye, but affects price and quality.
3. Clarity
Evaluates internal inclusions and external blemishes.
Graded from Flawless (FL) to Included (I) under 10X magnification.
Most diamonds appear flawless to the naked eye from Slightly Included (SI) grades and up.
4. Carat Weight
A carat = 200 mg, subdivided into 100 points.
Larger diamonds are rarer and more valuable.
Value also depends on the other 3Cs, not just size.
Diamond Care
Storage: Keep separate from other jewelry to avoid scratches.
Insurance: Highly recommended.
Cleaning: Regular cleaning is essential. Use jewelry cleaner or professional ultrasonic/steam cleaning.
Inspection: Have settings checked regularly to prevent stone loss.
Beyond the 4Cs: The "Immeasurables"
- Not all beauty is measurable. Crystal quality, brightness, and origin can significantly affect a diamond’s appearance.
- Source quality matters—like fine wine, origin impacts results.
- EDC hand-selects diamonds
Final Advice
See diamonds in person and trust your eyes with guidance from an expert.
A higher grade doesn’t always mean a more beautiful diamond.
Choose with confidence—and enjoy the process!
Contact EDC:
📧 info@shopedc.com | 📞 1-866-434-8244 (M–F, 10am–6pm EST)
