Beyond The 4 Cs

All diamonds have different characteristics on which they are graded. While the quality of the diamond is determined by the 4 C's (cut, carat, color, and clarity), there are also other physical characteristics that are graded also. These can include symmetry, polish, and fluorescence amongst others. Even cheap diamonds will have different values for symmetry, polish, and fluorescence. In some cases, like fluorescence, a cheap diamond can look more expensive but actually be a lower quality diamond. That's why it's important for a jeweler to determine these additional characteristics and how they impact the value of the stone.

On a GIA report symmetry can be graded poor, fair, good, very good, and excellent. There are very few diamonds that are actually perfectly symmetrical as the jeweler's aim is to cut the most diamond, heaviest carat weight, while avoiding imperfections in the stone. Cheap diamonds may have less symmetry but that doesn't really make them any less beautiful.

Polish is also graded by the GIA like symmetry. The only way to judge the polish of a diamond is to examine it, facet by facet, under a special light and microscope. Grain lines from polishing may reduce the grade but they might only be visible under reflected light, similar to what is used to grade them. Cheap diamonds can have lower polish gradings but have no visible impact in ordinary light.

Fluorescence can make a poorly graded diamond seem brighter and sparklier than the quality would indicate. This is why diamonds with fluorescence are actually less valuable than those that aren't. These diamonds tend to have a yellow hue in ordinary light but fluoresce a beautiful white or blue light under ultraviolet light.

Other articles of interest:

• Diamonds Prices at Abazias
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• Ideal Cut Diamonds at Abazias Diamonds
• GIA Certified Loose Diamonds
• GIA Wholesale Diamonds at Abazias Diamonds