A-Z Glossary
We want to make sure your diamond journey is as smooth as possible, understanding the terminology when buying a diamond is the first step, so we have put together some key phrases and terms that you are likely to come across when finding your perfect diamond.
A metal rim surrounds the diamond by the girdle to secure it in place. This setting style can create the illusion of a larger stone.
Blemishes often appear on diamond surfaces. These external characteristics include abrasions, nicks, extra facets, polish marks, naturals, and scratches, however they are usually not visible to the naked eye.
The intensity of the white light perceived by the eye when viewing a diamond’s crown, including from external and internal reflections. Clarity, polish, proportions and symmetry are all in correlation to a diamond’s brilliance.
The carat is a unit of weight rather than size.
Diamonds are secured in place between vertical metal walls, creating a smooth channel. In this contemporary setting, the stones are nestled side by side with no metal in between for a consistent flow and sparkle.
A Diamond’s Clarity grade evaluates how clean a diamond is from both inclusions and blemishes. Evaluating diamond clarity involves determining the number, size, relief, nature, and position of these characteristics, as well as how these affect the overall appearance of the stone.
A diamond’s tint. Colour is determined by comparing each diamond to a set of authenticated master diamonds scaled from colourless (D) to saturated (Z).
The angled edge of a diamond, located between the girdle plane and table (top).
Diamond cut specifically refers to the quality of a diamond’s angles, proportions, symmetrical facets, brilliance, fire, scintillation and finishing details.
A diamond’s height, measured in millimetres from its point or culet to its table.
Also known as “fire,” dispersion refers to the separation of white light into different colours.
A diamond’s ability to resist wear, based on its toughness, stability, and hardness.
A diamond’s ability to resist wear, based on its toughness, stability, and hardness.
Any flat, polished surface on a diamond or other gemstone.
The four C’s refers to the cut, colour, clarity, and carat weight. They are used to evaluate and compare diamonds.
A diamond’s girdle sits above the pavilion and beneath the crown. The girdle is usually faceted or polished.
A brilliant cut diamond shape that features two curved sides and tapered, pointed ends. Most marquise diamonds are brilliant cut
A brilliant cut diamond shape with curved sides and rounded ends.
The faceted, steeply angled bottom portion of a diamond that typically sits below the mounting and located just below the girdle.
A brilliant cut diamond with one wide, rounded end and one pointed end.
A weight measurement equal to 1/100 carat. For example, 0.80 carats equal to 80 points.
The round brilliant diamond shape has 57 facets comprising 33 facets on the crown and 25 on the pavilion. Each angle of every facet is precisely calculated to reflect the most light, creating a dramatic sparkle.
The mirror-like reflections a diamond’s facets make whilst being exposed to light in motion.
Jewellery containing just one diamond or gemstone, i.e. a solitaire engagement ring.