By
Ashley Bailey 
Various characteristics of diamonds are graded and categorized by the diamond industry. Learning about diamonds is first learning about the "four C's" of diamonds which are considered the most important grades and categories:
- Cut
- Clarity
- Color
- Carat Weight
These are the criteria jewelers use when grading diamonds, and they're the ones you will need to understand to buy the right diamond for you
Cut
Cut is probably the most important, and most challenging, of the four Cs to understand. The brilliance of a diamond depends heavily on cut.
Clarity
Most diamonds contain some inner flaws, or inclusions, that occur during the formation process. The visibility, number and size of these inclusions determine what is called the clarity of a diamond. Diamonds that are clear create more brilliance, and thus are more highly prized, and priced.
Color
Colorless diamond are the most desirable since they allow the most refraction of light (sparkle). Off white diamonds absorb light, inhibiting brilliance.
Carat Weight
A carat is the unit by which a diamond is measured. Becasue large diamonds are found less commonly than small diamonds, the price of a diamond rises exponentionaly to its size.
Here are a few engagement rings from Whiteflash featured on Spike TV
Platinum Halo Prong Diamond Ring with approx. .35 ctw Whiteflash A Cut Above diamonds and .76 ctw E SI2 A Cut Above Diamond center stone
Suggested Retail Price: Setting - $1,995; Diamond - $3,332; Total - $5,317
18K White Gold Bead Set Diamond Engagement Ring with .20cts WF A Cut Above diamonds in band set with .76 H IF Whiteflash A Cut Above 'Hearts and Arrows' diamonds.
Suggested Retail Price: Setting - $995; Diamond center stone - $4,389; Total $5,384
Platinum "Legato" Sleek Line Solitaire Engagement Ring set with 1.205ct F IF WhiteflashA Cut Above 'Hearts and Arrows' diamond.
Suggested Retail Price: Setting - $1,175; Diamond center stone - $21,957; Total $23,132
U-Prong "Champaigne' Diamond Engagement Ring set with 2.00 ct E VS2 Whiteflash A Cut Above 'Hearts and Arrows' Diamond
Suggested Retail Price: Setting - $2,400; Diamond center stone - $42,500; Total - $44,900
For more specific questions ask our experts
