Diamond is the hardest of all known natural substances. Its color ranges from colorless to yellow, brown, gray, orange, green, blue, white, black, purple, pink, and, extremely rarely, red. Transparent and near-colorless in a desirable color, diamond is a highly valued gemstone; poorly colored or heavily included single crystals are used for a wide variety of industrial purposes; polycrystalline material is crushed and used as an abrasive powder.
There is some evidence that diamonds may take a much as 300 million years to form. However, once formed diamonds may take a very long time, perhaps 3 billion years or more, to make their way to the surface where we mine them today. It is very likely that any diamond you own will be the most ancient thing you possess.
Selecting the perfect diamond
It might come as a surprise to some that for many, the purchase of a diamond will rank among the largest investments of their life. Baring this in mind, Beverly Clark Diamonds strives to ensure that you have a clear understanding of precisely what you are purchasing. Our guide seeks to educate our customers about the primary criteria — cut, color, clarity, and carat weight, by which diamonds are generally selected. In addition, shape and certification are often considered. Once you have studied our simple guide, selecting the perfect diamond will be a more enjoyable and fulfilling experience for you.
Quality
Beverly Clark Diamonds is proud to offer an impressive collection of carefully selected cut diamonds from some of the finest diamond cutters in the world. Our diamonds are selected for incomparable quality, cut, color, and clarity. A grading report certificate from EGL is included with every loose diamond purchased from Beverly Clark Diamonds.
Why select your perfect diamond from Beverly Clark Diamonds?
We believe that knowledge is your best resource when you begin the search for your perfect diamond. Beverly Clark Diamonds encourages you to review the settings and diamonds offered by other diamond retailers and then compare quality and value with the settings and diamonds you find here. We’re confident you’ll be inspired to make your final selection from Beverly Clark Diamonds.
Shape
The shape of a diamond is defined as it’s essential outline when observed from above.
The importance of understanding the four “Cs”
The four “Cs” refers to clarity, cut, carat weight and color. As you begin to understand how each of these elements affects the quality of a diamond you’ll be better equipped to identify the kind of quality diamond that will best fulfill your needs.
Clarity
The grade of a diamond’s clarity is determined by assessing the total number, relative location, size, and form of inclusions. Because natural processes form diamonds it is reasonable to expect most of them to contain a variety of flaws or imperfections. Such flaws are referred to as inclusions. During their formation, diamonds will sometimes develop such inclusions in the form of tiny cracks or fragmented carbon deposits that become suspended within the diamond. A diamonds’ clarity is represented as the number, type and size of inclusion present in the diamond. A grading system is used to determine the clarity of a diamond.
Cut
A diamond’s overall dimensions, brilliance and finish are determined largely by its cut. Diamonds can be cut into many shapes but a diamonds cut essentially refers to the overall quality of proportioning after the diamond has been crafted into its final shape. A diamonds can be round, pear, oval, marquise, princess, emerald or heart. The reference to a diamonds 'cut grade’ pertains to the balance of its proportions, symmetry and polish. Beverly Clark Diamonds is committed to selling only diamonds with a cut grade of “very good” and above.
Regardless of shape, the optimal cut of a diamond allows for the best possible reflection of the light that falls into it. This creates the effect of the sparkle that sets a beautifully cut diamond apart from the rest. What determines a “good” cut? Some grading reports, including those from GIA, provide depth % and table % ratios as compared to the width of a diamond. These ratios ultimately determine whether the light entering the diamond through the crown simply passes through and exits through the pavilion at the bottom or is refracted back out through the crown providing for a dazzling sparkle appearance. A table cut is considered to be good between 53-64% with a good depth cut falling in the 58-64% range. When a cut falls outside of this range the cut is determined to be too deep or too shallow. Such a cut does not return a majority of the light through the crown resulting in a dull appearance.
Carat Weight
A “carat” is defined as a standard unit of mass used for precious stones, especially diamonds, equal to 200 milligrams. When you search for the perfect diamond we recommend that you find a balance between size and the overall quality of your selection.
This is probably the most common standard buyers recognize. Quite simply, the carat weight of a diamond is the weight of the diamond. As a unit of measurement, 1 carat equals 200 milligrams or 0.2 grams. Therefore a 1.75 carat diamond will weigh 350 milligrams.
A diamonds value is determined in part by the fact that smaller diamonds are found in far greater abundance than larger diamonds. As a result, the price of a diamond tends to increase as the carat size of the diamond increases. In general, a 2 carat diamond equal in cut, color and clarity to two 1 carat diamonds will always have a greater value than the two smaller diamonds combined.
Of course size alone cannot be used to determine the ultimate value of a diamond. A large diamond of poor color, cut or clarity may have a lesser value than a smaller diamond with very high quality cut, color and/or clarity.
In the selection of your diamond, you will need to consider finding a proper balance between quality and size. The desire for a larger diamond may require some compromise regarding cut, color and/or clarity of the stone.
Color
There are dramatic variations in color from one diamond to another. It is wise to give careful thought to both the style and metal used to create the setting you have chosen weighed against the budget you have established to help determine the most complimentary color for your perfect diamond.
Because color in a diamond behaves much like a filter, reducing and diffusing the light that passes through the stone, the less color the more sparkle. Therefore, diamonds that are nearly colorless are considered to be the most valuable.
Using GIA's professional color scale which ranges from D for totally colorless diamonds to Z for diamonds showing a yellowish or brownish color, it is possible to match your carat weight to value ratio against your setting and overall budget. In most cases the diamonds you will find here at Beverly Clark Diamonds will have a color rating of J or better. Ultimately your personal preference and budget considerations will determine a color rating that is appropriate and acceptable for your specific needs. In a perfect world we would suggest that your purchase a diamond that falls within a rating of D, E or F but practical considerations often prevail. In most cases a diamond with a color rating of G, H or I will offer an almost undetectable color and the appropriate value desired for your diamond.
Certification
The process of certifying a diamond employs unbiased grading based on a variety of established testing criteria conducted by an independent laboratory that has been certified to issue grading results. Such an independent laboratory has certified every loose diamond sold by Beverly Clark Diamonds.
To properly establish the value of a diamond, one of four such independent laboratories will perform a thorough examination of each individual diamond and issue a written report. The report will include a physical inspection of the diamond and a written review called a grading report. This grading report, also sometimes referred to as a diamond dossier, will accompany the diamond on it’s journey to you. The inspection involves the placement of the diamond by a gemologist under a microscope. The gemologist then carefully determines the diamonds’ proportions, color, symmetry, fluorescence, cut, clarity and carat weight. An inspection may require from 30 to 60 minutes to complete.
The primary purpose of these laboratories is to provide consumers with protection by creating standards for the diamond industry to be used in the grading of loose diamonds. There are some laboratories that grade diamonds using their own standards which may be more rigid in one criteria but less rigid in another. The four most commonly recognized independent diamond certification laboratories are:
GIA - Gemological Institute of America
AGS - American Gem Society Laboratories
EGL - European Gemological Laboratories
IGI - International Gemological Institute
Beverly Clark Diamonds maintains a very high standard of excellence requiring all loose diamonds to be certified through either GIA, AGS or EGL (USA). Each of these competent laboratories presents the highest reputation in the North American market for delivering reliably and consistent reports of impeccable and un-biased accuracy. Regardless of where you ultimately purchase your diamond it is always best to obtain a certified grading report from an independent laboratory as a requirement for any diamond you purchase. Following this rule will ensure your satisfaction with the diamond you have chosen.
Click here to view a certificate.
How to Clean Diamonds
Understanding the proper methods for cleaning diamonds will keep your prized diamond jewelry sparkling for a lifetime. A diamond’s allure and mystique comes from its dazzling reflection of light, but dust, oils, and assorted debris can dull that sparkle and transform the most expensive diamond jewelry into little more than costume jewelry. It is always essential to employ proper cleaning procedures when cleaning your beautiful diamond jewelry in order to avoid damage that nullify warranties or result in replacing costly gemstones.
Never Use Regular Soaps
The best mild soap will still leave chemical residues on the surfaces it is used to clean. In fact, the tiniest deposits of residue will significantly dull the polished surface of a cut stone ultimately dimming its inner brilliance. It is best to use jewelry cleaners and detergents specially formulated to remove buildup for cleaning your precious Beverly Clark Diamonds diamond engagement ring along with all of your fine diamond jewelry.
Cleaning Your Diamonds
Whenever you clean diamond jewelry, you will want to remove dust and debris from every little nook of the item. Filigree, Celtic, and other highly detailed pieces will require extra time and care, while a more classic solitaire may require far less time and labor. The step-by-step process for cleaning your diamond jewelry is:
• It is always best to leave the cleaning of quality diamond jewelry to a professional, especially when you are uncertain of the type of metal, accent stones, or stability of the setting
• In addition, certain antique and heirloom rings are likely to be more delicate and will require professional cleaning.
• If you determine that your diamond jewelry can be cleaned at home you’ll want to begin by setting up a cleaning space.
• Always avoid open drains and if possible use a flat dry surface such as the dining room table. Placing a towel on the area to be used will protect furniture surfaces from water and cleaning chemicals.
• Be sure to select a location with sufficient lighting to allow viewing of small nooks and crevices.
• Begin by removing any visible hairs or fibers that may be trapped in the prongs or setting. A small pair of tweezers, like those you might use for glasses repair, may help with difficult to reach areas. Be very cautious using any metal tools as these can easily scratch the metal surface of your setting.
• It is best to presoak the jewelry in a clean bowl to remove loose dirt. It is very risky to rinse any fine jewelry under a running tap but if you must do so, be certain the drain is sealed or you use a strainer to be sure the item cannot go down the drain if it slips from your grasp.
• Dip the diamond jewelry in a cleaning solution of diluted ammonia with three parts water or professional cleaner. Soaking for a period of time can help to loosen dust and debris from the surfaces to be cleaned.
• Using a soft bristle (natural boar’s bristle works well) brush to gently scrub the diamond and it’s setting. Keeping a secure grip on your diamond jewelry, alternate angles frequently to get into all the little crevices.
• Before rinsing the jewelry, it is a good idea to wash, rinse and thoroughly dry your hands to remove the natural oils that tend to leave fingerprints. It is preferable that you rinse your diamond jewelry carefully in a dish of cool, distilled water. If you are cleaning several pieces together, place each piece after rinsing on a soft, lint-free cloth. If you choose to rinse under a running tap be sure the drain is sealed or you work over a plastic strainer to avoid loosing your precious diamond jewelry down the drain. Rinse thoroughly for several seconds to remove all cleaning solution.
• Carefully dry your diamond jewelry with a clean lint-free cloth. Use only cloth to polish your jewelry. Never use paper towels or paper products of any kind to clean or dry you fine jewelry.
How Often Should Diamonds be Cleaned?
Over cleaning diamonds could result in inadvertent scratches either to the stone or to the surrounding metal. A gentle huff of breath and a quick polish with a lint-free cloth is sufficient for most daily cleanings, and diamond jewelry should always be removed when it may be exposed to excessive dirt, such as during yard chores or sporting activities. The best cleaning schedule is to care for diamond jewelry whenever its shine and sparkle begins to dull, whether that is daily, weekly, or only a few times per year. In addition, always clean diamonds before photography or prominent social occasions so they look their best.
Heavy Duty Cleaning Techniques
Dull, dusty and heavily soiled rings may require more stringent cleaning efforts. It is very helpful to presoak your diamond ring and all fine diamond jewelry to help loosen and remove oils, dust and greasy buildup, repeating the entire cleaning process for more effective results with most hard-to-clean jewelry. A variety of home steam systems and ultrasonic cleaners are available but these measures should be used cautiously and only when the piece is truly filthy. When these measures have failed to restore your diamond jewelry’s original luster, Beverly Clark Diamonds recommends taking it to a professional jeweler.
When is a Jeweler is Required?
Generally, professional jewelers will be happy to provide complimentary cleanings when needed. However, returning to a jewelry store is often less than convenient for regular cleanings. It is always best to allow a professional jeweler experienced with cleaning diamonds to care for your fine diamond jewelry. Antique jewelry, necklaces and delicate rings will especially benefit from the service provided by a professional, experienced jeweler.
In particular, diamond jewelry that combines with other gemstones should always be cleaned professionally to avoid accidentally damaging the softer gemstones with applications that are meant only for diamonds, the hardest known naturally occurring material. This applies in particular to colored and treated diamonds because certain chemicals and methods of cleaning may cause damage or discoloration.
If you decide to take your diamond ring or other fine diamond jewelry to a professional jeweler for cleaning, try to bring it in its original display box for protection. If you no longer have the original box it is best to wrap the jewelry carefully in a soft, lint free cloth for transport. Do not place different pieces together in the same box loosely as the hard diamond edges may have a tendency to scar or otherwise damage the softer metal settings of your other fine jewelry. Never carry your fine jewelry loosely in a pocket or purse as coins and other objects may scar or otherwise damage the softer metal setting(s).
Be sure to provide the jeweler with any details about previous treatments the jewelry and gemstones may have received in the past. Most qualified, professional jewelers will offer a brief inspection prior to cleaning to evaluate any potential care issues, however, providing any relevant information regarding the item to be cleaned will help to ensure your fine diamond jewelry receives the best care possible.
What Not to Do When Cleaning Your Fine Diamond Jewelry
Regardless of how dirty a diamond is, never:
• Use sharp objects such as razors, knives, pins, needles, or other to clean crevices. Such items will possibly scratch the stone or damage the softer metal setting.
• Use common household cleaners, bleach or other potentially harsh and abrasive chemicals. Chemicals used in such cleaners will often etch, erode or otherwise discolor your jewelry’s metal setting.
• Remove the diamonds or any other gemstones from the metal setting for cleaning. Your fine diamond jewelry should only be repaired or modified by a qualified professional jeweler.
Remembering these simple steps and rules regarding the cleaning and care for your fine diamond jewelry will help to keep them dazzling and brilliant for a lifetime.
Metals
Your determination as to which precious metal should be used for the setting will directly affect not only the price and the appearance but the feel of the ring as well. Because of the consistent wear most engagement rings must endure, they are most often crafted from gold, platinum or palladium. For many other types of jewelry however, many different types of metals are often used.
Gold
• 24 karat gold, shown as (24k), is 100% pure gold and is therefore not alloyed with any other metals.
• 18k gold is 75% pure.
• 14k gold is 58.3% pure.
• 10k gold (the lowest purity legally permitted) is 41.7% pure.
Purity
• In it’s purest form, gold is a softer, more malleable metal and is therefore rarely used to create jewelry. Typically, pure gold is combined (or “alloyed”) with a variety of other, harder metals, such as silver, copper, nickel, and zinc as a means of strengthening and improving its durability.
• Gold’s purity is measured in karats (not to be confused with the word “carat” which refers to the size of a diamond).
Color
• The traditional yellow appearance of gold is primarily attained through a process of alloying the pure gold with specific percentages of silver and copper.
• White gold derives its appearance when pure gold is alloyed with nickel or palladium and is often selected as a metal for engagement and wedding rings.
• Rose gold is created when pure gold is alloyed with copper. Although generally not used in the creation of engagement rings, rose gold is a popular a choice for other types of jewelry.
Price
• Although considered a rare metal, gold is not nearly as rare as platinum and so it is generally less expensive.
• The price of gold depends primarily on its purity (the number of karats) and its volume.
Platinum
• In choosing platinum for your engagement ring or wedding band, you will want to be certain it is stamped "900plat" (or "950 Plat"). This stamp is an indication that the metal is 90% (or 95%) pure.
Purity
• Platinum’s high level of purity (90-95%) makes it not only valuable, but hypoallergenic as well, making it an exception choice for those with sensitive skin.
• Platinum’s unusual density makes it one of the most durable metals available for use in making engagement or wedding rings.
Color
• Platinum is best known for its warm, naturally white luster.
• Platinum’s density and other qualities ensure that its luster never fades or tarnishes.
Price
• Due to its uniqueness, purity, desirability and rarity, platinum is a more expensive metal than either gold or palladium.
Palladium
• Exceptionally pure and hard, palladium is hypoallergenic and will not tarnish.
Purity
• Palladium is 95 % palladium and 5% ruthenium.
• Although harder and more durable than platinum, palladium is less dense and therefore lighter in weight than platinum.
• Palladium is neither man-made, alloyed or altered in any way and is a relatively new metal to the jewelry world,
Color
• Palladium’s characteristic smooth, vivid, naturally white sheen is a key factor contributing to this durable metals rise in popularity as a choice for engagement and wedding rings.
Price
• Currently, in part due to its newness on the jewelry scene, palladium is a less expensive metal as compared to platinum or gold.
Finding Your Ring Size
At Beverly Clark Diamonds we understand that you may not be aware of the correct ring size required for your purchase. To assist you in determining the correct ring size we have created a simple ring measuring chart that you can print at home and use to measure the finger for which the ring will be fitted. Before printing the ring measuring chart, be sure “page scaling” in your print preferences, is set to "none" in the print dialog box. This will ensure the document is printed at the correct 100% scale. (Our ring measuring chart is an Adobe PDF document which only requires the Adobe Acrobat Reader. The Adobe Acrobat Reader is downloadable for free if you don’t already have it. [Download Free Adobe Acrobat Reader Now]
Helpful tips for obtaining an accurate ring size measurement:
• Measure the printed document with a ruler.
• A snug fit will ensure an accurate size.
• Avoid measuring when your fingers are cold.
• It is best to measure your ring finger at the end of the day when its diameter will be largest.
• If you’re trying to surprise your partner check discretely with your partner's friends or mother to see if they know the correct finger size.
• If you have access, you might borrow one of your partner's rings (be sure it is worn on the correct finger) and match it to the Ring Measuring Chart to determine its size.
• If you and your partner are sharing the selection process together, you can always visit a retail jewelry store in your area and ask one of the customer service representatives to assist you with obtaining the measurement.
Resizing your ring from Beverly Clark Diamonds
If you have inadvertently ordered a ring of the incorrect size and it’s within 30 days of shipment just call our customer service line 800-525-4747
Or
Email:
Be sure to have your purchase order number ready when you contact us and we’ll provide you with a return authorization number. Just follow our required shipping procedures (located on our “Shipping & Returns” page, and we'll be happy to resize your Beverly Clark Diamonds engagement ring and/or wedding band free of charge.
