The importance of the 4C’s: Viewing engagement rings in Hatton Garden
08/06/2018The importance of the 4C’s when viewing engagement rings
For many customers beginning their search for the perfect engagement ring in Hatton Garden, it is a good first step to sit down with an experienced Hatton Garden jeweller to discuss the 4C’s of a diamond. The 4C’s is an incredibly useful framework devised by the GIA (Gemmological Institute of America) which grades the Colour, Clarity, Cut and Carat weight of a diamond. This is particularly helpful because it allows people to compare the quality of two or more diamonds.
When trying on engagement rings in London, you’ll first learn about the colour. Many customers assume that all diamonds are colourless, when in fact they come in a range of colours. Unless it is a fancy coloured diamond that you are looking for, colour is assessed on the D-Z scale (the normal colour range). Rennie & Co specialises in colours D-F which fall within the colourless tier.
The GIA defines clarity as the absence of inclusions and blemishes. During a diamond’s formation when it's exposed to extreme heat and pressure, it will often contain unique birthmarks, either internal (inclusions) or external (blemishes). Many customers choose a diamond that is free from visible clarity characteristics with the unaided eye.
The cut of a diamond is incredibly important, a well cut stone will allow a diamond to better interact with light. When looking at engagement rings in Hatton Garden, many customers choose to prioritise the cut of a diamond.
The carat of a diamond is perhaps the most widely recognised of the 4C’s. Carat is a measurement of weight and not size. As an example, a half carat diamond might have a diameter 5.1mm, whereas the diameter of a one carat diamond (weighing 100% more) will only increase by a further 25%. Choosing the correct carat weight will ultimately come down to what looks right on the hand.
Rennie & Co, the Hatton Garden jeweller, has always believed in educating their clients as to the value factors of a diamond. We provide honest and factually sound advice that allows our customers to choose a beautiful diamond that is right for them. To contact our friendly jewellery consultants, speak to the team on 020 7405 4585 or email diamonds@rennieco.com. Alternatively, our fine jewellery can be viewed online – single stone engagement rings, three stone diamond rings, contemporary diamond rings, vintage style cluster rings, gemstone rings.
