Here at McKims Jewellery Design, we understand that like no two diamonds are the same, neither are our clients. We carefully select high quality diamonds and gemstones to perfectly fit your wants, needs and desires. Whether you have a world of diamond and gemstone knowledge or very little, we will gladly walk you through the process of selecting the perfect diamond for your jewellery piece.

When choosing a diamond there are many things to consider, such as the type of jewellery piece, the overall design and shape, your ideal budget, as well as a diamond’s quality.

Diamonds are graded and certified using the 4Cs; Cut, Colour, Clarity, and Carat.

The Cut of a diamond determines how well a diamond’s facets will interact with light and is graded by the proportions, symmetry, and polish of the finished cut. A diamond is graded from Poor Cut through to Ideal Cut. A round brilliant cut diamond that is graded as ‘triple excellent’ will have a perfect cut, polish, and symmetry, giving the diamond’s brilliance and shine.

A diamonds Colour quality is based on the absence of colour and is graded by the degree of colourlessness, from D through to Z. Most diamonds selected at McKims Jewellery Design range between D-G. A diamond can also be found in other colours including, yellow, pink, and blue. However, coloured diamonds are graded slightly differently, as the intensity of the colour will determine the quality and therefore price.

To determine the diamond’s Clarity, the inclusions and internal blemishes are assessed and graded by their size, position, and the total number within the diamond. Diamonds are graded using a scale from Internally Flawless to Included. We usually recommend selecting diamonds that range from SI2-VS1 (Slightly Included to Very Slightly Included). When selecting your forever diamond, another key feature that is important to take into consideration is whether the diamond is ‘eye-clean’. This refers to the inclusions being undetectable with the naked eye. In more recent years, ‘salt and pepper’ diamonds have become popular, which are simply heavily included diamonds.

A diamond’s Carat weight measures the total weight of the diamond and is subdivided into ‘points’ which allows for a precise grading system. Although a diamonds weight is measured by a consecutive points system, it does not reflect a diamonds dimension in the same manor. For example, a half-carat diamond (0.50ct) is 5mm in diameter, compared with a three- quarter carat diamond (0.75ct) measuring 5.7mm in diameter. However, a one carat diamond (1.00ct) is 6.5mm in diameter, therefore showing an inconsistent incline in the diamonds’ diameter.

For more information regarding the 4Cs, visit the JAA website;

https://www.jaa.com.au/Diamonds

There are so many factors to consider when selecting your diamond, and we will gladly guide you through the process of choosing your perfect diamond for your new jewellery piece!