By now we know all about the 4 C’s, but how does one go about choosing the diamond that is right for you?

It all begins with the cut, meaning the shape of the diamond. Traditionally and to this day, the round brilliant cut is perceived to be the perfect cut for a diamond. But what about the other shapes? Does the femininity of the oval appeal to you? Or are you more inclined towards the geometric shape of the princess cut? And if the stark lines of the princess cut do not appeal to you, would you rather go for the softer look of a cushion cut diamond?

Fancy shapes have seasons. Celebrities play a big role in which shapes are popular. When Ashley Judd showed off a big cushion cut diamond on her finger, jewellery designers brought out collections based on the cushion cut and everybody wanted one. At the moment, ovals and cushions are trending, but next year it may change to marquise and pear shape.

Designs change with time. If you have your heart set on an oval, ask yourself if you will still like it when you decide to change your ring a few years from now. The halo cluster may be not what you like in ten years, so make sure that whatever shape you choose can be used in a ring of a different design.

We all love diamonds. They burn with an inner sparkle and convey a sense of mystery. Putting on a pair of diamond earrings, or any other piece of diamond jewellery for that matter, makes you feel different. Invincible. Strong. Fitting feelings, seeing that diamonds are the hardest natural substance on earth.

Because diamonds are so rare and unique, it is inevitable that they will be subjected to rumours. (They are like the most popular girl in school, making those around her wonder how she got to be so perfect and beautiful.)

Broken down to basic facts, it is easy to understand diamonds. They sparkle because of their density (did you know they break the speed of light by more than half?) Everybody knows about the “Four C’s, but that is not all you need to know. Of all the factors, the last C which stands for Cut, is the most important. Mother Nature gave us the Carat weight, the Colour and the Clarity. The diamond cutter gives us the Cut. A diamond needs to be cut and polished according to strict parameters in order for it to sparkle.
After the cutting process, the diamond must be graded by an internationally recognized diamond grading laboratory. Not only does it then get a certificate, but also a grading on the cut. It can be classified as Excellent, Very Good, Good or Poor. A diamond that is not Excellent or Very Good on the cut grade will not sparkle is not worth buying. It is worth less than a diamond that is perfectly cut and polished.

So, before you invest in a diamond, make sure that it has the correct documentation.