The Four C's are a globally recognized standard for assessing the quality of diamonds.

They stand for Cut, Colour, Clarity, and Carat Weight. Each of these factors plays a significant role in determining a diamond's overall appearance, quality and value.

Here's a detailed explanation of each:

Cut

The cut of a diamond refers to how well it has been shaped and faceted by a gemcutter (also known as a lapidary or laipidarist). The quality of cutting greatly affects the diamond's brilliance and sparkle. A well-cut diamond reflects light internally from one facet to another and then disperses it through the top of the stone. Cuts are graded from Excellent to Poor. The precision of the cut influences the diamond’s ability to capture and reflect light, making it a crucial aspect of a diamond's beauty.

Colour

The colour of a diamond is graded on a scale from D (completely colourless) to Z (light yellow or brown). The less colour a diamond has, the higher its grade. Colourless diamonds are rarer and more valuable because they allow more light to pass through, resulting in exceptional sparkle and brilliance. Subtle differences in colour can significantly impact a diamond's value. Fluorescence in a diamond is not generally considered a desirable attribute, although sometimes fluorescence in a diamond can visually negate the light yellow of a lower grade diamond, making it appear more white.

Clarity

Clarity measures the presence of internal imperfections, known as inclusions, and external imperfections, known as blemishes. The clarity scale ranges from Flawless (no inclusions or blemishes visible under 10x magnification) to Included (inclusions and/or blemishes are obvious under 10x magnification and may affect transparency and brilliance). Fewer inclusions mean a higher clarity grade and, potentially, a more valuable diamond.

Carat

Carat weight measures the size of the diamond. One carat equals 200 milligrams. Larger diamonds are rarer and generally more valuable. However, two diamonds of equal carat weight can have very different values depending on their cut, color, and clarity.

The Importance of the Four C's

When choosing a diamond, understanding the Four C's helps you balance quality and cost to find the best diamond for your needs. Here's why each is important:

Cut: Prioritize cut as it has the most significant impact on a diamond’s brilliance and sparkle. A poorly cut diamond will look dull even if it has excellent color and clarity.
Colour: Consider the colour based on your preference and budget. Julia Pharo Jewellery generally works with diamonds in the E to G (colourless to near-colourless) range. 

Clarity: Evaluate clarity to ensure there are no inclusions that can be seen with the naked eye. Inclusion grading varies from Internally Flawless (IF) through to Included.   are not visible without magnification, so a diamond with Slightly Included (SI1 or SI2) clarity often offers good value.
Carat Weight: Decide on carat weight based on your preference for size and budget. Remember that a well-cut diamond can appear larger and more brilliant than a poorly cut diamond of the same weight.

In conclusion, while each of the Four C's is important, the cut is often considered the most crucial because it directly influences the diamond’s brilliance. Balancing all four characteristics according to your preferences and budget will help you choose a diamond that offers the best combination of beauty and value.

In the realm of gemmology, the 4Cs refer to Cut, Colour, Clarity, and Carat weight, which are essential factors used to assess the quality and value of a diamond or other precious gemstones.

Each of these characteristics plays a crucial role in determining the overall appeal and market value of the gemstone, but their importance can vary depending on individual preferences, intended use, and cultural considerations. Here’s a breakdown of their significance:

Cut

Often considered the most critical factor, the cut of a diamond or gemstone affects its brilliance, fire, and overall visual appeal. A well-cut stone reflects light internally and disperses it through the top, creating sparkle and enhancing its beauty. A poorly cut stone may appear dull or lackluster regardless of its other qualities. The precision of the cut also impacts how well the stone interacts with light, making it a primary consideration for maximizing a gem’s beauty.

Colour

The colour of a diamond refers to its hue, tone, and saturation. In diamonds, colour grades range from colourless to light yellow or brown, with colourless diamonds (graded D to F) typically being the most valuable due to their rarity and brightness.

Clarity

Clarity measures the presence of internal inclusions and external blemishes within a gemstone. Gemstones with fewer or no visible inclusions are considered more valuable because they allow light to pass through the stone unobstructed, enhancing brilliance and transparency. However, the importance of clarity can vary depending on the type of gemstone; for example, some colored gemstones are expected to have certain types of inclusions that indicate their natural origin.

Carat Weight

Carat weight is a measure of a gemstone’s weight and size. Larger gemstones generally have a higher carat weight and may be rarer and more valuable, especially in the case of diamonds. However, carat weight alone does not determine a gemstone’s value; it must be considered alongside the other three Cs to fully assess its quality and worth.

While the importance of each C can vary based on personal preferences and the specific gemstone being evaluated, the cut is often regarded as the most influential factor in enhancing a gem’s beauty and value. A well-cut gemstone can maximize its inherent qualities, making it appear larger, more brilliant, and more visually appealing.

Ultimately, the significance of each C depends on balancing these factors to achieve the desired combination of beauty, rarity, and value in a gemstone purchase.

The term "carat" is a unit of weight used to measure diamonds and other gemstones. One carat is equivalent to 200 milligrams or 0.2 grams.

The word "carat" is derived from the carob seed, which was historically used as a standard for weighing gemstones due to its relatively uniform weight.

When referring to diamonds, carat weight is a crucial factor in determining a stone's value and price. Larger diamonds are rarer and therefore more expensive per carat than smaller diamonds.

While carat weight is an essential measure of a diamond's size, it is just one of the "Four Cs" (carat, cut, colour, clarity) that determine the overall quality and value of a diamond. Understanding these factors can help you make more informed decisions when purchasing diamonds.

When dealing with diamonds and other gemstones, you'll often come across several abbreviations related to carat weight.

Understanding these abbreviations is essential for making informed purchases and ensuring you get what you expect.

The Abbreviation "ct"

This abbreviation stands for carat which is the unit of weight used for individual gemstones.

For instance, a diamond weighing one carat is denoted as  1ct. or, sometimes, 1.0ct

The abbreviations "ctw and "ct tw"

These abbreviations stand for "carat total weight" or "total carat weight."

They indicate the combined weight of all diamonds or gemstones in a piece of jewellery.

For example, if a ring has several smaller diamonds that collectively weigh 1 carat, it would be described as having a total carat weight of 1ctw or 1ct tw.

The Importance of Knowing the Difference Between These Abbreviations:

Single Stone vs. Multiple Stones

Understanding the difference between "ct" and "ctw" helps you distinguish between the weight of a single gemstone and the total weight of multiple stones.

This distinction is crucial because a single one-carat diamond typically has a higher value and different visual impact compared to several smaller diamonds totaling one carat.

Price and Value

Jewellery with a higher total carat weight (ctw) might appear more impressive at first glance, but individual smaller stones are usually less valuable than a single stone of the same total weight. Knowing this helps in evaluating the true value of the piece.

Setting and Appearance

The total carat weight can affect the design and setting of the jewellery. For example, a piece with multiple small stones might have a different aesthetic and setting style than one with a single large stone.

An engagement ring marketed as having "1ctw" might have several small diamonds that add up to one carat. In contrast, a ring labeled as "1ct" features a single diamond weighing one carat.

By understanding these abbreviations and their implications, you can better assess the quality, appearance, and value of gemstone jewellery, making more informed purchasing decisions.

The terms "carat" and "karat" are often confused due to their similar spelling and identical verbalisation, but they refer to entirely different aspects of jewellery and gemstones. Here's a detailed explanation to clarify the difference:

Carat (ct)

Definition: Carat is a unit of weight used to measure diamonds and other gemstones. One carat is equivalent to 200 milligrams (0.2 grams).

Usage: This term is primarily used to describe the weight of diamonds and other precious stones. For example, a diamond weighing one carat is denoted as 1ct or, sometimes, 1.0ct.

Importance: Carat weight is one of the "Four Cs" (carat, cut, colour, clarity) used to evaluate the quality and value of a diamond.

 

Karat (k or kt)

Definition: Karat is a unit of measure that indicates the purity of gold. Pure gold is 24 karats, meaning it is 100% gold. The karat value tells you how many parts out of 24 are pure gold.

Usage: This term is used to describe the purity of gold in jewellery. For example, 18-karat gold (frequently abbreviated to either 18k or 18kt) is an alloy comprising of 18 parts pure gold and 6 parts other metals, making it 75% pure gold.

Importance: The karat value affects the durability, colour, and price of gold jewelelry. Pure gold (24k) is the most valuable gold but is generally considered too soft and malleable for use in most jewellery pieces. Lower karat gold (e.g., 9k, 14k or 18k) is considered more durable for creating jewellery pieces.

Karat Gold Guide:

• 24k Gold is pure gold. All 24 parts (karats) are gold with only very few trace impurities. 24 karat gold contains between 995 and 999 parts per thousand of pure gold and will often carry a purity stamp or Hallmark showing either "995" or "999" depending on the level of gold purity assayed.
• 18k Gold is 75% pure gold with other metals added to it to create a gold alloy. 18 karat gold contains 750 parts per thousand of pure gold and will often carry a purity stamp or Hallmark showing "750" to indicate the level of gold purity assayed.
• 14k Gold is 58.5% pure gold with other metals added to it to create a gold alloy. 14 karat gold contains 585 parts per thousand of pure gold and will often carry a purity stamp or Hallmark showing "585" to indicate the level of gold purity assayed.
• 9k Gold is 37.5% pure gold with other metals added to it to create a gold alloy. 9 karat gold contains 375 parts per thousand of pure gold and will often carry a purity stamp or Hallmark showing "375" to indicate the level of gold purity assayed.

Why It’s Important to Know the Difference Between Carats and Karats:

1. Material vs. Weight: "Carat" relates to the weight of gemstones, while "karat" pertains to the purity of gold. Knowing the difference helps you understand what aspect of the jewellery is being described.
2. Value Assessment: The value of diamond jewelry is heavily influenced by carat weight, whereas the value of gold jewelry depends on its karat purity. Being clear on these terms aids in evaluating the price and quality of the pieces.
3. Durability and Maintenance: Higher karat gold (e.g., 24k) is softer and may require more care, whereas lower karat gold (e.g., 9k, 14k or 18k) is more durable and is most commonly used for creating jewellery.
4. Shopping for Engagement Rings: When purchasing engagement rings, you'll encounter both terms. Diamonds will be described in carats, and the gold setting will be described in karats. Knowing the distinction ensures you make informed decisions about both the stone and the band.

A Practical Example:

• An engagement ring might feature a 1 carat diamond set in an 18 karat gold band. Here, "1 carat" tells you the diamond's weight, while "18-karat" indicates the gold purity of the band (75% pure gold). A description of this piece may be written as "1ct diamond 18k gold ring"

By understanding the difference between carat and karat, you can navigate the jewelry-buying process with greater confidence and clarity.

However....

Some countries in the world use the term "carat" (and it's abbreviation, "ct") for both gemstone weight and gold purity.

Therefore you may see gold described or marked as 9ct, 14ct, 18ct or 24ct.

For ease of reference, Julia Pharo Jewellery always clearly differentiates between carat (gemstone weight) and karat (gold purity) and exclusively use the appropriate abbreviations, "ct" and "k", respectively.

Yes, diamond colour is indeed an important factor to consider when choosing a diamond, as it significantly affects both its appearance and its value. Here are several key points to consider:

Appearance:

The colour of a diamond refers to the presence or absence of colour within the stone. Diamonds are graded on a scale from D (colourless) to Z (light yellow or brown). Generally, the closer a diamond is to being colourless (grades D to F), the more valuable and desirable it is because it allows more light to pass through, enhancing its brilliance.

Value:

Colour is one of the 4Cs (Cut, Colour, Clarity, and Carat weight) that determine a diamond's quality and price. Diamonds with higher colour grades (D to G) tend to be more expensive than those with lower grades (H to Z). This is because achieving a colourless appearance is rarer and requires higher-quality raw materials.

Personal Preference:

The importance of diamond colour can vary based on personal preference and the setting in which the diamond will be worn. Some people prefer the classic look of a colourless diamond, while others appreciate the warmth and character of diamonds with slight colour tints.

Setting and Lighting:

The setting of the diamond and the lighting conditions in which it will be viewed can also influence how important colour is. In certain settings or under certain lighting, the differences in colour grades may be less noticeable, allowing for more flexibility in choosing a diamond with a slightly lower colour grade.

Certification:

When purchasing a diamond, it's essential to consider diamonds that come with a gemmological certification from a reputable laboratory (such as GIA). This certification will detail the diamond's colour grade among other factors, giving you reassurance and authenticity in your purchase.

 

In conclusion, while diamond colour is indeed important, its significance can vary depending on individual preferences, budget, and the overall desired look. Understanding the nuances of diamond colour grades and their impact on appearance and value can help you make an informed decision when selecting the perfect diamond for your needs.

When examining a diamond through a loupe, there are several key aspects you should focus on to assess its quality:

1. Inclusions and Blemishes: Look for any internal flaws (inclusions) or external imperfections (blemishes). Inclusions can appear as tiny black spots, crystals, or white feather-like lines within the diamond, while blemishes are surface defects. The fewer and less visible these are, the higher the clarity grade of the diamond.
2. Symmetry and Proportions: Observe the diamond’s symmetry and how well the facets align. Well-cut diamonds have facets that reflect light evenly, contributing to the stone’s overall brilliance and sparkle.
3. Polish: Check the smoothness of the diamond's surface. A well-polished diamond should not have visible scratches or marks, and should allow light to pass through without distortion.
4. Girdle: Examine the girdle, the thin edge that separates the crown (top) from the pavilion (bottom). It should be consistent and not overly thick or thin, as this can affect the diamond's durability and setting.
5. Colour: Through the loupe, you can also notice any hints of colour within the diamond. While some colour might not be visible to the naked eye, it can be more apparent under magnification.

By focusing on these aspects, you can get a better understanding of the diamond’s quality and value. Your jeweller will be able to guide you to work correctly with the loupe and help you to thoroughly inspect your gemstone.

 

When it comes to engagement rings, diamond size is a factor - but it’s really not the only one that matters. The significance of diamond size varies based on personal preferences, cultural influences and the overall design of the ring.

1. Personal Preference: Some people value a larger diamond as a symbol of commitment and status, while others prioritize the quality of the diamond or the uniqueness of the setting and design. The right size of diamond is subjective and should reflect the wearer's tastes and lifestyle.
2. Quality vs. Size: It's important to consider the balance between size and quality. A larger diamond may be impressive, but if it lacks clarity, colour, or a good cut, it might not have the desired brilliance and sparkle. In many cases, a slightly smaller diamond with higher quality in these areas can appear more beautiful and radiant.
3. Ring Design: The design of the ring plays a significant role in how the diamond is perceived. A well-crafted setting can enhance the appearance of the diamond, making a smaller stone look larger or more prominent. Additionally, certain designs may not be suited for very large stones, as they can become cumbersome or out of proportion.
4. Practicality: Consider the wearer’s lifestyle when choosing the diamond size. Larger diamonds can be more prone to damage or may be uncomfortable for everyday wear. It’s essential to choose a size that fits comfortably with the wearer's daily activities.

Ultimately, the "right" size for an engagement ring diamond (or, in fact, any other gemstone) is one that aligns with personal preferences, fits within your budget, and complements the overall design and quality of the ring.

 

Yes, certain engagement ring designs can enhance the appearance of your diamond, making it look larger than it actually is. Here are some design strategies to consider:

1. Halo Setting: A halo setting features a circle of smaller diamonds surrounding the center stone. This design creates an optical illusion, making the central diamond appear larger and more brilliant. The added sparkle from the surrounding diamonds also draws attention to the center stone.
2. Thin Band (Shank): Choosing a thin or delicate band can make the diamond appear larger by contrast. A narrower band focuses attention on the diamond, emphasizing its size and presence on the ring.
3. Bezel Setting: A bezel setting, where the diamond is encircled by a metal rim, can enhance the diamond's perceived size, particularly if the metal is highly polished or reflective. This setting also provides extra protection for the diamond, making it a good option for those with an active lifestyle.
4. Pavé or Micro-Pavé Band: A band encrusted with small diamonds (pavé or micro-pavé) can add sparkle and draw the eye toward the center stone, enhancing its appearance. The additional diamonds create a seamless look of brilliance, making the overall ring more striking.
5. Oval, Marquise, or Pear-Cut Diamonds: These elongated diamond shapes naturally appear larger than round diamonds of the same carat weight due to their spread-out surface area. They can create an illusion of greater size while still offering a unique, elegant look.
6. Double Halo: Similar to the halo setting, a double halo adds an additional layer of smaller diamonds around the center stone. This design further increases the perceived size of the diamond and adds extra sparkle to the ring.
7. Three-Stone Setting: A three-stone setting features two smaller diamonds on either side of the center stone. The side stones can make the center diamond look larger by comparison and add additional brilliance to the ring.

By carefully selecting one of these designs, you can maximize the visual impact of your diamond and achieve a stunning engagement ring that showcases the stone beautifully.

Ah, the age-old question of how much to spend on an engagement ring!

You’ve probably heard the "two months' salary" rule (or even three), but let’s be honest—that’s more of a marketing myth than a financial must-do.

The real answer? Spend what feels right for your budget, your financial situation, and your relationship.

Here are some practical guidelines:

1. Forget the Rules: There’s no magic number you have to hit. The idea that your love should be measured by the size of your bank account simply isn't true. Focus on finding something meaningful rather than hitting a target amount.
2. Set a Personal Budget: Look at your finances, set a comfortable budget, and stick to it. This could be £2000, £5000, or whatever feels right to you. Remember, your fiancée's engagement ring is a symbol of your love and commitment, not a test of your spending power.
3. Talk Openly to Your Jeweller: By being open about your available budget when commissioning a bespoke engagement ring, your jeweller can present gemstones and create ring designs that will comfortably fit with your finances - creating an engagement ring that will take your fiancée's breath away without breaking the bank!
4. It’s About the Thought: At the end of the day, it’s not about how much you spend; it’s about the thought, care, and love behind your choice. There’s no right or wrong amount tp spend on an engagement ring —just what’s right for you!

 

If you're on a budget for an engagement ring, here are some tips to help you find a beautiful ring without overspending:

1. Set a Realistic Budget: Decide on a budget that you’re comfortable with and stick to it. Remember, there’s no set rule for how much you should spend.
2. Prioritize the 4Cs: Focus on what matters most to you and your fiancée among the diamond's 4Cs—Cut, Colour, Clarity, and Carat.  We would always suggest prioritising Cut over anny of the other 4C's. A well-cut diamond can look stunning even if it’s smaller or slightly lower in color or clarity.
3. Consider Alternative Stones: It’s not only diamonds that can be a girl’s best friend. Coloured gemstones can also be engagement ring rock stars as seen by an increasing number of headline grabbing coloured gemstone engagement rings worn by royalty and high profile celebrities. Coloured gemstones offer a unique look and often have better value.
4. Choose a Halo or Cluster Setting: These settings can make a smaller center stone appear larger and more brilliant, giving you more sparkle.
5. Opt for a Simpler Design: A classic band without extra diamonds or intricate designs can help keep costs down and still look elegant.

Ultimately, the thought and meaning behind the ring matter most. Choose something that reflects your fiancée’s style and your commitment.

Yes, there are several treatments that can be applied to diamonds to enhance their appearance:

1. Laser Drilling: Used to remove inclusions, laser drilling creates tiny holes to access and bleach or remove internal flaws.
2. Fracture Filling: This treatment fills surface-reaching fractures or inclusions with a clear substance to improve the diamond's clarity.
3. HPHT (High-Pressure, High-Temperature): This process alters the color of certain diamonds, often turning them whiter or more vibrant.
4. Irradiation and Annealing: These treatments are used to change or enhance the color of a diamond, creating various shades like blue, green, or pink.

It's important to note that treated diamonds should be disclosed as such at the time of sale, and treatments can affect the value and care requirements of the diamond.

Julia Pharo Jewellery do not use treated diamonds in any of their jewellery pieces.

Yes, diamonds often come with a certificate or grading report from a reputable gemological laboratory, such as the Gemological Institute of America (GIA).

This certificate provides details about the diamond’s characteristics, including its carat weight, color, clarity, cut, and other factors, helping to validate its quality and authenticity.

Absolutely! Using a vintage heirloom engagement ring to propose to your fiancée can be a wonderfully meaningful, romantic and sentimental gesture. But before popping the question, here are some considerations and steps you might want to take:

 

Assess the Condition

Before proposing with the ring, do take the time to have it inspected by a reputable jeweller. They can check if the ring is structurally sound and if the gemstone(s) are secure.

 

Consider Restoration

If the ring needs some restoration work (such as resizing, re-tipping or replacing prongs or replacing a missing stone), discuss these options with the jeweller. They can advise on how to maintain the integrity of the ring while restoring its beauty.

Vintage rings may have wear and tear that could affect their durability and this can usually be repaired by a competent bench jeweller – but do ensure your jeweller is experienced in working with vintage and estate fine jewellery.

Your jeweller can also professionally clean the piece to ensure this treasured ring sparkles on your special day.

 

Personalize the Proposal

Highlight the sentimental value of the ring when you propose. Share the story of how it belonged to your grandmother and why you chose it for your fiancée. This personal touch adds depth to your proposal.

 

Discuss Preferences

If your fiancée has specific preferences or concerns about wearing a vintage ring, it's good to have an open conversation with her.

Whilst she loves you and the sentiments behind your family's vintage engagement ring, she may prefer a more modern style or may even have allergies to certain metals which may preclude her from wearing your vintage ring, so do take time, following your proposal, to understand her thoughts and preferences.

 

Future Care

Vintage rings may require special care to maintain their condition. Discuss with your jeweller how to properly clean and care for the ring to ensure it lasts for generations to come.

 

Insurance

It is likely that a family heirloom piece may already be insured on an existing policy – but do contact your insurer to make sure the ring will still be covered by the policy when given to, and worn by, your fiancee-to-be. It’s very important to insure the ring to protect its sentimental and financial value. If necessary, your jeweller can provide guidance on obtaining a proper appraisal for insurance purposes.

Ultimately, proposing with a vintage engagement ring can be a beautiful way to honour your family's history and create a meaningful connection between generations. Taking care to prepare the ring and personalize the proposal ensures that this precious heirloom becomes a cherished part of your future together.

Please note that Julia Pharo Jewellery only provide fine jewellery repair, restoration and jewellery cleaning services to existing private clients and their close family members. We regret we are unable to provide such services to the general public.

Yes, absolutley!

Whether you wish to discuss the redesign or re-modelling of an existing piece or simply wish to ultilise the precious metal in other jewellery you own, we would discuss the various commissioning options available to you.

Absolutely, proposing without a ring is a perfectly acceptable and increasingly common practice. Many couples choose this route for various reasons, such as wanting to select the ring together afterward or because they prioritize the proposal moment itself over the ring selection process. It can also alleviate the pressure of choosing a ring that may not align with your partner's taste or preferences.

Instead of focusing solely on the ring, you can emphasize the thoughtfulness and sincerity of your proposal. Consider personalizing the proposal to reflect your relationship and your partner's preferences, which can make the moment even more meaningful.

If you decide to propose without a ring, you can discuss the ring selection together afterward, ensuring that your fiancée-to-be gets a ring they love and that symbolizes your commitment. Ultimately, what matters most is the sincerity and love behind the proposal, rather than the presence of a ring at the moment of asking.

Finding reliable and unbiased advice about choosing a diamond can indeed be challenging due to the vast amount of information online, much of which comes from biased sources like diamond sellers or affiliates. Here are some tips to find impartial advice:

Non-Commercial Websites: Look for educational resources that are not tied to any diamond seller or retailer. Websites like the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) offer inoformational and educational materials that are focused on gemology rather than selling diamonds.

Gemological Authorities: Organizations like the GIA are renowned for their gemological expertise and are not directly involved in diamond sales. Their website provides comprehensive guides on diamond quality, grading, and evaluation.

Educational Courses or Books: Consider taking courses or reading books on gemology from reputable sources. These resources focus on educating rather than selling, and can provide you with a solid foundation of knowledge.

Consult with Independent Appraisers: If you're seriously considering a purchase, consulting with an independent jewelry appraiser who doesn't sell diamonds can provide unbiased advice. They can evaluate a diamond's quality objectively and offer guidance on value.

Avoid Overly Commercial Websites: Be cautious of websites that prominently feature advertisements or that primarily exist to promote diamond sales. Their advice may be biased towards selling rather than educating.

Compare Multiple Sources: Cross-check information from different sources to ensure consistency and reliability. Reliable information should be based on established standards and not vary significantly across different sources.

By using these strategies, you can navigate through the plethora of information available online and find reliable, impartial advice to help you make an informed decision when choosing a diamond.