When it comes to studying diamonds, there are many factors that are used to determine the value of a diamond that need to be taken into consideration. The four main characteristics are known as the 4 C’s – color, cut, clarity, and carat. There are other factors that also need to be considered, like the diamond’s spread.
Many people have never heard of a diamond’s spread and have no idea what it means. A diamond’s spread refers to the size that a diamond appears to be to the naked eye. A jeweler could tell you that a particular diamond has a spread of one carat, but this is not what the carat weight is. It means that the diamond looks like it is one carat in size when really it is not (it will usually have a smaller carat weight).
The price of a diamond is largely determined by the carat and not the spread. A jeweler will weigh a diamond before it is mounted in a setting because the overall price of the jewelry piece will be determined in part by the weight of the diamond. It is also important to understand that a diamonds carat refers to the weight of the diamond, so the cut of the diamond will reduce the overall carat size. A diamond with a shallow cut will appear to be larger than a diamond that has a thick cut and thick cut diamond will actually look smaller than it truly is.
When you are looking to buy diamonds it is important to look at all of the major factors, but it is just as important to look all the little things as well. That way you are sure to make an informed and educated decision.