Color or the lack of it effects the value of the diamond.
It can range from absolutely colorless (graded D to F) all the way to Z. The colorless
designation is extremely rare with the most common tinge yellow, brown or gray. The
differences are very subtle to the eye but it does affect not only the value,
but the appearance of the stone.
The amount, extent, and size of imperfections present in
a diamond determines the clarity grading. The stone is graded for clarity by an
expert under 10 power magnification. It is very rare to find a diamond that is flawless
(grade F1 or IF) or even one with Very, Very small inclusions (VVS1 or VVS2).
There are actually 8 designated grades before a diamond is graded Imperfect (flaw
visible to the unaided eye). Clarity affects the passage of light through a diamond
thus its appearance.
Is the actual weight of the diamond on a
diamond scale. A one Carat diamond weighs .20 grams or 1/5 of a gram. The weight
is a determining factor in the value of a diamond as even 1 point (1/100 of a Carat)
can affect the price dramatically. A singlestone weighing one Carat will be worth
many times a cluster with the total weight of one Carat. The larger the diamond
the rarer it is.
Cut refers to the proportions to which a diamond was cut and
faceted. Precise cutting effects the brilliance or scintillation a diamond shows.
It returns all possible light back to the eye after bouncing around inside the
diamond creating that dazzling effect we desire. Very often a stone cut only
to retain weight rather than to correct proportion, and is therefore expensive and
less brilliant making it less desirable.