THE 4 C'S AND BEYOND
WE DON'T SETTLE FOR ANYTHING LESS THAN EXTRAORDINARY AND NOR SHOULD YOU
Our diamonds are so impressive that distinguishing them from mined diamonds requires specialised equipment in the hands of trained gemologists.
Here is what you need to know to make an informed decision.
CUT
Simply put, this should be your first consideration regardless of the shape of the diamond. The quality of its cut is of the utmost importance, as this is what the eye sees most of all. This is why we curate our selection to only include Ideal and Excellent cut grades.
The captivating flashes of coloured light dispersion from these diamonds result from carefully calculated proportions, fact angles, and absolute precision cutting.
CLARITY
In our opinion, given the incredible value-for-money lab-grown diamonds represent, there really is no point considering a stone lower than VS2, Very Slightly Included.
Diamond clarity refers to the absence of inclusions and blemishes and is graded under x10 magnification.
Lab–grown diamonds, like natural diamonds, are created as a result of carbon exposed to tremendous heat and pressure. This process can result in various internal characteristics called ‘inclusions’ or uncrystallised carbon and external characteristics called ‘blemishes.’
Evaluating diamond clarity involves determining the number, size, nature, and position of these characteristics and how they affect the stone's overall appearance. Remember that no diamond is perfectly pure unless deemed FL - Flawless.
The Diamond Clarity Scale has six categories, some of which are divided, for a total of 11 specific grades.
-
Flawless (FL) No inclusions and no blemishes visible under 10x magnification.
-
Internally Flawless (IF) No inclusions visible under 10x magnification.
-
Very, Very Slightly Included (VVS1 and VVS2) Inclusions so slight they are difficult for a skilled grader to see under 10x magnification.
-
Very Slightly Included (VS1 and VS2) Inclusions are observed with effort under 10x magnification, but can be characterised as minor.
-
Slightly Included (SI1 and SI2) Inclusions are noticeable under 10x magnification.
-
Included (I1, I2, and I3) Inclusions are obvious under 10x magnification which may affect transparency and brilliance.
[custom_image_one]
CARAT
Not to be confused with precious metal purity, carat is a measure of weight.
A metric “carat” equals 0.22 grams and is subdivided into 100 points. For example, a half-carat diamond is referred to as a 0.50 pointer (0.50ct), a one-carat diamond is 1.00ct, and a one-and-a-half-carat diamond is 1.50ct.
We are proud to offer a selection of large stones at the most competitive prices seen anywhere on the internet. Diamonds from three carats upwards in all shapes are surprisingly affordable and astoundingly beautiful when cut well.
COLOUR
When considering a white diamond, the colour grading system describes the degree of colourlessness.
Starting at D (with the least colour) through to Z, which is intense yellow. Many of these diamond colour distinctions are so subtle they are invisible to the untrained eye, such as the colour difference between D and E, for example. However, these distinctions will make a difference to the diamond’s price.
Lab-grown diamonds offer such incredible value for money there really is no point considering a stone from G through to V. The only exception to this rule is for those looking for a yellow diamond, in which case focus on diamonds from U to Z.
CLEANING
Without regular cleaning, diamonds will lose their shine as everyday substances like hand cream, soap, dishwashing liquids, and hairspray build up.
Cleaning them at home with warm water and a soft toothbrush or a specialised cleaning solution will help them reflect light. After cleaning, use a hairdryer to dry your jewellery.
CONFIDENCE
When you make a purchase with us, you receive an independent certification and grading report engraved on the girdle of the diamond, visible under 10x magnification.
Our certifications come from renowned institutions like the International Gemological Institute (IGI), the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), and HRD Antwerp. With 20 laboratory locations worldwide, the IGI groups grade finished jewellery, natural diamonds, lab-grown diamonds and gemstones.
While searching our selection, you can view the certificates for each diamond.
The growth method may not always be specified, but each diamond undergoes a rigorous inspection to ensure it matches the report.
Feel free to get in touch if you have any questions at all.
FIND OUT ABOUT FLUORESCENCE
This is not a 'C' however, you should know that most diamonds emit a soft glow, most often blue, more rarely yellow, when exposed to strong ultraviolet light. This is known as fluorescence.
Gemological laboratories rate diamond fluorescence on a scale from “None” to “Very Strong”.
We choose to offer diamonds in the Nil or Faint fluorescence grade.
[custom_image_two]