The 4 Cs for Diamonds

Fine diamonds are among the most coveted of all gems. Their value, however, differs widely from one diamond to another. Experts evaluate every diamond for rarity and beauty, using four primary guidelines. These are called The Four C's - Cut, Color, Clarity, and Carat Weight.

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Rarity & Beauty All gem-quality diamonds are rare, taking billions of years for nature to form them. The journey from the mine to you is long and arduous. While the four C's information helps you to identify the quality of the diamond you are purchasing, it is the combination of these four characteristics which determine a diamond's rarity. If you imagine a four-sided pyramid, with each side being a diamond characteristic - the more readily available diamonds form the base of the pyramid while the rarest diamonds are at the top. Keep this pyramid in mind when you are selecting your diamond. Your selection of characteristics will determine rarity and value. And remember - beauty is in the eye of the beholder. A diamond can only be truly perfect if you think it is beautifully perfect for you.

The 4 Cs for Colored Gems

Where do you begin the journey into the magical world of color? What are the factors that make a gem rare and valuable?

Much like a diamond, the various combinations of a stone's cut, color, clarity, and carat weight, along with availability and accessibility, determine rarity. You will find a brief description of those features here. These explanations are based on the system for gemstone evaluation established by the Gemological Institute of America.

Click here to learn more on the 4 Cs for Colored Gem Grading

Rarity The various combinations of color, clarity, cut and carat weight are primary factors in determining the value of a gemstone.

Some other factors that impact rarity are the abundance of a particular gem type and the geographic location where it is mined. Several gemstones are more abundant and are more easily accessible than others. Many other gems are found in remote locations, which makes mining virtually impossible. The economic and political environments of the region where the gemstones are located may also limit the accessibility of some gems.

With all of these considerations, it is truly an amazing and often challenging journey from the mine to the jewelry store. The gem you have chosen is a treasure - rare, beautiful and valuable; just like you!

Our Fair Pricing Policy
Did you know that unique custom jewelry can cost less than ready to wear jewelry? We price our goods and services fairly and honestly. We do not, have not, and will not participate in the common retailing practice of inflating mark-ups to set up a future phony "sale." We follow strict G.I.A. grading.

TERRY NUTT CUSTOM JEWELRY
5021-D NW 34th Street
Gainesville, FL 32605
Phone: 352-372-4484
Email

Store Hours: 
10-6 Mon-Fri | 10-4 Sat