Natural or lab-grown?
Both are real diamonds. Here is how they differ, and how to decide between them.
The four Cs, explained plainly
Carat, colour, clarity and cut: what each means, and which one to spend on.
Every diamond is described by four qualities. Understanding them helps you spend your budget where it shows.
Carat is weight, not size. One carat is 0.2 grams. Two diamonds of the same weight can look different in size depending on how they are cut.
Colour is graded from D, completely colourless, down through the alphabet. Stones from D to F are rare and expensive; G to I look colourless to most eyes once set, especially in yellow gold. This is where many buyers can save.
Clarity describes tiny internal marks. VS1 and VS2 stones have marks you cannot see without magnification. SI1 stones are often eye-clean too, and cost less. Ask to see the stone face-up, as it will be worn.
Cut is the one we would never compromise on. A well-cut diamond returns light to your eye and sparkles; a poorly cut one looks dull, whatever its colour or clarity. If your budget is fixed, choose an excellent cut first, then balance the others.
