While every diamond is one of a kind, all diamonds share key structural features that influence their proportions, brilliance, dispersion, and scintillation. Understanding the anatomy of a diamond provides insight into how each part contributes to its overall beauty, helping you select the perfect stone. A diamond is composed of eight main components, each with a specific name and function.
- Diameter
The width of the diamond, measured edge to edge across its widest point. - Table
The largest polished facet, located at the top of the diamond. It serves as the primary window through which light enters and reflects back. - Crown
The upper portion of the diamond extending from the table to the girdle. The crown is comprised of several facets, including the bezel (crown mains), star facets, and upper girdle facets (upper halves), all of which contribute to light refraction and brilliance. - Girdle
The widest edge of the diamond where the crown and pavilion meet. It serves as the boundary and is critical for securing the stone in a setting. - Pavilion
The lower part of the diamond extending from the girdle to the culet. This section plays a significant role in light reflection, creating the diamond’s internal fire and brilliance. - Depth
The total height of the diamond, measured from the table (top) to the culet (bottom). Depth affects the diamond’s sparkle, with optimal proportions ensuring maximum brilliance. - Table Spread
The ratio of the table’s size to the overall diameter of the diamond. A balanced table spread enhances light reflection. - Culet
The small, flat facet at the very bottom of the diamond’s pavilion. A well-proportioned culet prevents damage while maintaining symmetry and brilliance.
Each part of a diamond works together to define its beauty and brilliance, making the anatomy essential to understanding what makes a diamond truly extraordinary.
Diamond Care Guide
Cleaning Your Diamond Jewelry
To keep your diamond jewelry sparkling, follow these tips based on the setting:
- For Prong and Cathedral Settings: Soak your engagement or wedding rings in a solution of warm water and mild dishwashing liquid for up to 30 minutes. This method is gentle and effective.
- For Pave and Basket Settings: Avoid extended soaking as it may loosen small gems. Instead, use a gentle cleaning approach with a mild soap solution and a soft cloth or cotton swab.
Steps for Cleaning:
- Mix mild dish soap with warm water.
- Soak the jewelry briefly (a few minutes).
- Gently scrub with a soft cloth or cotton swab, focusing on the metal (gold, platinum, or silver).
- Rinse with warm water and repeat if needed.
Additional Tips:
- Window Cleaner: For extra shine, soak diamonds in a glass cleaner for no more than one minute. Avoid using this method on rhodium-plated jewelry. Rinse thoroughly with the mild soap solution afterward.
- Toothpicks: Carefully remove lodged dirt between prongs, avoiding scratching the metal or disturbing the prong’s position.
- Tweezers: Use gently to remove cloth fibers stuck in the setting.
Ionic Cleaners: Safe for most diamond jewelry, but avoid using them on pieces with other gemstones that might react to electrical currents.
Storage: Keep diamond jewelry separate from other pieces to prevent scratches. Store diamonds individually to avoid them scratching each other.
Insuring Your Diamond Jewelry
Protect your investment by ensuring proper insurance coverage for your diamond jewelry.
- Review Existing Policies:
Homeowner’s and renter’s insurance policies typically cover only a small portion of jewelry loss. Verify the amount covered and consider additional insurance if needed. - Additional Insurance:
- Determine if the policy has a deductible and its amount.
- Ensure the policy covers theft, damage, and loss, including overseas incidents.
- Confirm whether the coverage is for full replacement cost or if cash settlements are available.
- Appraisals:
- Most insurance companies require an appraisal to insure fine jewelry.
- Confirm acceptable appraisal reports with your insurance provider.
- Update appraisals regularly, as required by the insurer.
- Policy Details:
- Read the terms carefully to ensure comprehensive coverage.
- Check for discounts if you have a home security system like an alarm.
Research and Compare:
Take time to research insurance companies, comparing policies, coverage, and costs to find the best protection for your valuable jewelry.
By following these steps, you can maintain your diamond’s beauty and safeguard your investment for years to come.
Fluorescence in Diamonds
What is Diamond Fluorescence?
Fluorescence is a natural phenomenon observed in certain minerals and gemstones, including diamonds. It occurs when a diamond emits visible light upon exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light. While typically invisible under normal lighting conditions, fluorescence can create a soft, colored glow when the diamond is placed under a UV lamp.
Do All Diamonds Have Fluorescence?
No, not all diamonds exhibit fluorescence. Diamonds without fluorescence are categorized as “inert” or “none” on their grading reports.
Types of Diamond Fluorescence
The intensity and color of fluorescence in diamonds can vary:
- Intensity Levels:
- Faint: A barely noticeable glow under UV light.
- Medium: A visible but moderate glow.
- Strong: A clearly visible glow under UV light.
- Very Strong: A pronounced and vivid glow under UV light.
- Fluorescence Colors:
- Blue is the most common color.
- Other colors include yellow, green, and white, though they are less common.
How Does Fluorescence Affect a Diamond?
Fluorescence usually has no noticeable impact on a diamond’s appearance in standard lighting. However, in specific cases:
- Positive Impact: Strong blue fluorescence can make yellow-tinted diamonds appear whiter, enhancing their visual appeal.
- Negative Impact: Rarely, strong fluorescence can cause a diamond to appear milky or oily, potentially diminishing its clarity.
Understanding fluorescence can help buyers make informed decisions based on their preferences and how they intend to enjoy their diamond.