Diamond earrings are a staple that every woman should have in her jewelry box. Classic yet stylish, the right pair of earrings can put the finishing touch on any outfit and can outlast any passing fashion trend. They really are the most versatile accessory you’ll ever buy. No two diamonds are exactly alike, though, so when picking a pair of earrings, how do you know you’re getting true quality?
Color
First of all, you need to check the color of your diamond. Contrary to expectations, the less color a diamond has, the better quality it is. A chemically pure, perfectly structured diamond has no hue at all. Gia has a color matching chart on their site, which can help you check the quality of any diamond’s color.
Clarity
Clarity refers to the amount of blemishes and flaws found in the diamond. These come about naturally when the diamond is being formed, and those with less flaws are prized more, and so are more expensive. Diamond Buying Guide describes two types of flaws: blemishes, which are found on the surface, and inclusions, which are found within the diamond.
Cut
Most people know the general cuts that diamonds can come in, such as emerald, round, and pear, but in this context the ‘cut’ refers to how well the diamond interacts with light. After all, diamonds are renowned for their ability to sparkle and shine. The cut really depends on a master craftsman to create the perfect shape and polish for maximum interaction with light.
Carat Weight
Finally, there’s the carat weight. A ‘carat’ is actually a measurement of weight, with one metric carat coming in at 200 milligrams. A diamond is considered to be more valuable if it has a higher carat weight, as it means that it’s a larger gem. However, remember that a larger diamond still may not be as valuable if it holds more flaws, or hasn’t been cut to the highest standard.
These four qualities are a great guide of judging a diamond, but at the end of the day the quality is subjective. A diamond may have a smaller carat weight and possible hold a flaw or two, but for you it could be perfect. With this information, you can pick the perfect pair of diamond earrings to enhance any outfit and become a classic piece in your jewelry box.
