The A - Z of the four C's
Carat
Size does count - however bigger isn't always better. A smaller diamond may be better in terms of cut, clarity and colour.
Cut
A diamond is cut to reflect light. Most diamonds are brilliant cut with 58 facets. A good cut gives maximum reflection and sparkle. American Swiss uses mainly brilliant cut diamonds, as well as some princess and baguette cuts and a few other fancy shapes.
Colour
Most prized diamonds are colourless because they allow more light through and therefore more sparkle. Diamonds are graded D-Z in colour according to GIA standards with D being the most sought after (and valuable) colour (also known as blue white) and Z being the dark yellow. At American Swiss we stock a range of the finest GH-OP diamonds.
Clarity
This refers to the interior and exterior inclusions and surface markings. When a diamond is free of inclusions, it is said to be flawless, because nothing interferes with the passage of light or spoils the beauty. We stock anything between VS (very small inclusion) to SI (small inclusion) where SI is eyeclean (cannot see inclusions with the naked eye).
"The fifth C"
Care
To keep a diamond its brilliant, sparkling best, one should keep it clean.
Which means brushing it once a month in mild, soapy water and dry with a soft cloth. You should also have your diamond's setting checked once a year, as well as upgrading your insurance.
