Not all precious diamonds are made equal. In fact, diamonds fall under various categories and classifications. To help you learn more about it as you shop for a vintage engagement ring in Hatton Garden, we have enumerated each type based on these two categories: colour and cut.
Colour
Natural Diamonds – Regular diamonds are usually colourless. Natural diamonds form due to extremely high pressure and temperature in the earth’s mantle. They then travel towards the earth’s surface through streams of molten rock. This process causes diamonds to have flaws, giving each one unique look. It takes one to three billion years to form a diamond, hence its high value.
Enhanced Diamonds – Enhanced diamonds have almost identical features as natural diamonds, except that they undergo a few alterations to improve their appearance. Filling the diamond with a special material is one of the most popular enhancements. This material hides the imperfection of the diamond, making it look more appealing. But take note that diamonds go through these treatments if they are no longer of value.
Artificial-Made Diamonds – Lab-grown diamonds are another type that is becoming popular these days. Diamonds manufactured through technological means have lesser value compared to natural diamonds. They are also 50% cheaper compared to regular diamonds.
Fancy-Coloured Diamonds (Natural) – Most people consider these as the most beautiful type of diamonds. These natural fancy-coloured diamonds are rare. Most people only became aware of them a decade ago when a growing number of celebrities started wearing them. A few of the most famous ones are canary yellow and pink diamonds. But they are also available in other sets of colour such as black, yellow, grey and green.
Cut
Another categorisation that helps classify each diamond is its cut. Cut refers to the proportion, symmetry, finish and polish of each diamond. Each subcategory helps determine the brilliance and intensity of the diamond. Experts say that a well-cut diamond is well proportioned, polished and has symmetrical edges. Yet, this type of diamond is rare and sells at a premium. And only poorly cut diamond often sells at affordable prices.
Both the depth and width of the diamond’s cut affect the way light travels within the stone. This creates its brilliance. Too much shadow in the diamond prevents the light from illuminating from the bottom. This causes it to lose brilliance. But cutting it too deep will let the light escape from all sides, which makes the diamond look dark.
The term ‘cut’ also refers to the style of the diamond’s cut. A few of the basic types are round-cut, emerald-cut, marquise-cut and princess-cut diamonds. The cut grade also considers the design and craftsmanship of the stone. Experts say a diamond’s cut is an essential factor in determining the stone’s final value and beauty.
These are a few factors that help classify diamonds. It is always best to ask an expert to learn more about the categories of each diamond. This can be helpful, especially when you are shopping around for an engagement ring for your partner.