Finding the perfect diamond may seem like finding a needle in a haystack, but that couldn’t be farther from the truth. We promise, here at Vanessa Nicole Jewels, we will be with you every step of the way to make sure you find that perfect diamond that possesses all the qualities that are important to you!

If you’ve done any previous research, then you know how confusing understanding those qualities can be.

diamond 4 c's

One of the main questions we hear clients ask is, “Why are diamonds different prices when they are the same carat weight, color & clarity?”

This is an EXCELLENT question and requires some in-depth understanding of the different Cut grades for diamonds.

All of the 4 Cs are important to the beauty of a diamond, and therefore dictate the price. Cut is often times overlooked, and is not even a factor on GIA diamond certificates other than for Rounds. However, in reality, this 4 C is behind that mesmerizing sparkle, and visual size!

Some people may confuse cut with simply referring to the diamond shape. However this category also refers to the quality of the facets and proportions, which in turn is what creates that brilliant sparkle. Round Diamonds can receive a Cut grade of Poor, Fair, Good, Very Good, and finally Excellent being the best.

A diamond’s proportions determine how well it reflects light, which is the brilliance you see when you look at them.

If the diamond is cut too deep or shallow, it will allow for light to escape out of the bottom or sides of the diamond. This creates a dulling effect that reduces the sparkle and “wow factor” of the stone.

This is why some argue that the Cut is the most important factor to consider when purchasing a diamond, given that diamonds possessing exceptional Color and Clarity will be dull and lifeless with a bad Cut. The only thing is, only Round diamonds actually have an official “Cut” grade.

This brings us back to our question, what’s the reasoning behind the different prices?

In the diamond cutting process, Diamond Cutters often cut a diamond to hit a certain carat weight because this makes the price jump significantly higher. However, just because it weighs in at 2ct, doesn’t mean all 2ct diamonds visually look the same.

For example, this video below shows three 2ct cushion diamonds, which feature various shapes.

Three 2 Carat Cushion Cut Diamonds

In this case, a client could potentially get a larger looking stone for a similar price as the smaller looking 2 ct diamonds.

All diamonds other than a ‘Round’ diamond are called “fancy shapes.” Unlike a round diamond they do not have an “ideal” cut grade because it is subjective.

Some people like square, some people like rectangular.

But ALL people like sparkle, and that is what you need to focus on when choosing the best fancy shape since the grade report doesn’t help you do that.

They still need to be proportional in their own unique way. Cushions should fall ideally around the length to width ratios of 1:1 to achieve the square look, and anywhere up to 1:1.3 to achieve the elongated look. Largely an elongated cushion will look bigger on the hand because it takes up more length on the finger.

You may be asking yourself, “Well how do you know which way to go then if the grade report doesn’t grade the Cut of all fancy shapes?”

Ask the expert, of course: Vanessa Nicole Jewels!

Vanessa herself will utilize her network of diamond dealers to source only the BEST available stones on the market at the BEST prices.

Fire, sparkle & brilliance are absolutely #1 when it comes to searching for the perfect diamond, yet there is no grade for “Fire,” “Sparkle” or “Brilliance” on a certificate, so you can rely on our trained eyes to keep those factors in mind when putting together your Diamond Selection. From here, you will be able to choose which diamond speaks most to you!

To learn even more about tips and secrets head over to our DIAMOND PRICE SECRETS where this topic, among the other 4 C’s are discussed in detail.

Ready to Design the Ring of Your Dreams?

Vanessa Nicole is an award-winning designer, master diamond setter and author of the bestselling book The Perfect Custom Engagement Ring. She creates stunning custom antique engagement rings for clients all over the globe.

The Artist’s Studio

Vanessa Nicole Jewels specializes in micro pavé engagement rings, bringing award winning talent to those who desire the highest quality engagement ring experience for their life partner. The benefits of a micro pavé engagement ring are obvious. However, such a stunning ring is only more breathtaking and built to last when it is custom made by a professional jewelry studio rather than a mass production wholesaler.

  • All our micro pavé engagement rings are created exclusively for you. No overseas workers, no duplicates!
  • You work directly with the designer to execute your vision. No pushy salespeople!
  • We meticulously select every diamond in-house to ensure that it meets our high standards for sparkle.
  • We use ONLY the most brilliant-looking diamonds.
  • All our custom micro pavé engagement rings include the option of the “Making Of Your Ring™” DVD service – a special video that shows her ring being made, which she’ll watch over and over!

Vanessa Nicole Jewels specializes in creating custom, one-of-a-kind engagement rings and wedding rings. Personalized Service & Happiness Guaranteed!

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