Diamond Education
Michael F. & Co.
Diamond Education
At Michael F & Co, we want to help you make the best choice when it comes to your jewelry. Our Diamond Education section covers the basics of diamond quality, including the 4Cs—Cut, Color, Clarity, and Carat weight.
The 4Cs of Diamonds
Cut
The cut of a diamond determines how well it reflects light, giving it its brilliance and sparkle. A well-cut diamond will shine brightly, while a poorly cut diamond may appear dull. The cut is graded from Excellent to Poor.
Color
Diamonds come in a range of colors, from colorless to light yellow or brown. The less color a diamond has, the higher its value. Diamonds are graded on a color scale from D (colorless) to Z (light color).
Clarity
Clarity refers to the presence of internal or external imperfections, known as inclusions and blemishes. The fewer the inclusions, the clearer and more valuable the diamond. Clarity is graded from Flawless (no inclusions) to Included (inclusions visible to the naked eye).
Carat Weight
Carat weight measures the size of the diamond. Larger diamonds are rarer and typically more expensive, but carat weight should be balanced with the other 3Cs to ensure a beautiful and high-quality diamond.
Diamond Shapes
Round Brilliant
The most popular diamond shape, known for its exceptional brilliance and fire. It’s a classic choice for engagement rings and other fine jewelry.
Princess
A square or rectangular shape with pointed corners. The princess cut is popular for its modern, elegant look and excellent sparkle.
Cushion
Known for its rounded corners and larger facets, the cushion cut has a vintage charm with a soft, romantic appearance.
Emerald
A rectangular shape with step-cut facets that create a unique hall-of-mirrors effect. The emerald cut is known for its elegance and clarity.
Diamond Certification
GIA Certification dossier
At Michael F & Co, all our diamonds come with a certification from the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), ensuring the quality and authenticity of your diamond. The GIA is the most trusted and recognized diamond grading laboratory in the world.
Why Certification Matters
A diamond certificate provides detailed information about the diamond’s characteristics, including the 4Cs. It’s an essential document that guarantees the quality and value of your purchase