A diamond’s weight is measured in what is known as a ‘carat’, which is a small unit of measurement equal to 200 milligrams. Carat is not a measure of a diamond’s size, but rather a measure of a diamond’s weight. One carat can also be divided in 100 points. A .75 carat diamond is the same as 75 points or 3/4 carat diamond. Because larger diamonds are found less frequently in nature, they are more valuable. Therefore, a 1 carat diamond will cost more than twice a 1/2 carat diamond, assuming other characteristics are similar. The most important thing to remember when it comes to a diamond’s carat weight is that it is not the only factor that determines a diamond’s value. The diagram to the right shows the size of various carat weights of a diamond in relation to each other. The position of inclusions can greatly affect the value of a diamond. Some inclusions can be hidden by a mounting, thus having little effect on the beauty of a diamond. An inclusion in the middle or top of a diamond could impact the dispersion of light, making the diamond less brilliant. Inclusions are ranked on a scale of perfection known as the clarity scale. The scale ranges from F (Flawless) to I (Included) and is based on the visibility of inclusions at 10X magnification.
CLARITY: Refers to the presence of
COLOR:
Refers to the degree to which a diamond is colorless.
The farther from colorless that a diamond's grade is, the less rare and therefore less valuable it is.
Diamonds are graded on a color scale established by the
Gemological Institute of America (GIA), which ranges from D (Colorless) to Z.
Color differences can be very subtle and grading is done under controlled lighting
and compared against a 'master' diamond for accuracy. For best overall appearance
we recommend diamonds in the D-J color range. The color chart below is
representative of the color grades of a diamond.
Refers to the angles and proportions of a diamond.
The cut of a diamond refers to the exact proportions, quality of polish and the arrangement of a diamond's facets.
While nature determines a diamond's clarity, carat weight and color, the hand of a master
craftsman is necessary to release the diamonds’ fire and sparkle. A diamond has facets that allow light to enter it, become refracted, and exit in a rainbow of colors.
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CARAT:
inclusions in a diamond.
Inclusions are natural identifying characteristics such as minerals or fractures, that appear while diamonds are being formed.
They may look like tiny crystals, clouds or feathers. Inclusions are usually viewed at 10x magnification.
The position of inclusions can greatly affect the value of a diamond.
Some inclusions can be hidden by a mounting, thus having little effect on the beauty of a diamond.
An inclusion in the middle or top of a diamond could impact the dispersion of light, making the diamond less brilliant.
Inclusions are ranked on a scale of perfection known as the clarity scale. The scale ranges from F (Flawless) to I (Included) and is based on the visibility of inclusions at 10X magnification. 
As illustrated below, when a diamond is cut to ideal proportions, is carefully polished and has exact symmetry,
light will then reflect from one facet to another and disperse through the top of
the stone, resulting in a display of brilliance and fire. Diamonds that are cut too deep or too shallow, lose or leak light through the side or bottom,
resulting in less brilliance, fire, scintillation and value.
