What Does a Diamond Truly Mean? And What Grade Is the Best? Find Out Here
Diamonds are the dream gemstone for many—not only for their stunning beauty but also for their value. Purchasing diamond jewelry is more than just adorning oneself; it's an investment. Diamonds can be traded, sold, pawned, or even passed down as heirlooms for future generations. But have you ever wondered what a diamond truly symbolizes? And what diamond grade is considered the best? Let’s explore these questions, especially for those new to buying diamonds.
What Is the Best Grade of Diamond?
If you’re planning to buy a diamond, naturally, you’d want the best grade possible. High-grade diamonds are not only more beautiful but are also in greater demand, making them easier to buy, sell, or use as collateral—essentially a smart investment. For years, people have debated which diamond grade is the best. That debate came to a resolution when the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) developed the globally recognized 4Cs standard for grading diamonds.
These 4Cs—Carat, Color, Clarity, and Cut—help buyers make informed decisions, as they collectively determine the diamond's beauty, quality, and value.
1. Carat
Carat refers to the weight of a diamond. One carat equals 200 milligrams, or 100 "points" in Thai diamond terminology. Diamonds under one carat are often referred to by their point weight. For example, a 0.30-carat diamond is called a "30-point" diamond in Thailand.
In general, the heavier the diamond, the higher its price. However, diamond pricing does not increase linearly with weight—it increases exponentially as size increases.
2. Color
Diamond color is graded from D to Z, with D being completely colorless and Z having a noticeable yellow hue. A “D Color” diamond is also commonly referred to as a “100-water diamond” in Thai—a term symbolizing its ultimate purity and brilliance. The more colorless the diamond, the rarer and more expensive it is.
3. Clarity
Clarity assesses the presence of natural inclusions (internal flaws) and blemishes (external flaws) in a diamond. The fewer the imperfections, the higher the clarity—and the value. The highest clarity grade is Flawless (FL), indicating a diamond that is completely free from both internal and external defects, even under magnification.
4. Cut
Cut is crucial—it determines how well a diamond reflects light and sparkles. Diamond cuts are graded on a scale of Excellent, Very Good, Good, Fair, and Poor. The best-quality diamonds often achieve the title of “Triple Excellent Cut”, which means they score "Excellent" in three criteria:
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Proportions
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Polish
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Symmetry
A perfectly cut diamond will exhibit brilliance, fire, and scintillation that elevate its overall beauty.
Now that you understand the hidden meanings of diamonds and what makes a diamond truly high-grade, you can shop more confidently. The 4Cs grading system by GIA offers a trustworthy standard, helping you evaluate and choose the perfect diamond.
To ensure you get what you’re paying for, always look for diamonds that come with a GIA certificate, and choose to shop at reputable jewelers—such as Petchchompoo Jewelry, where you're guaranteed high-quality, beautiful diamonds.