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The 4Cs of Diamonds
Before you even start diamond shopping, you want to have a full understanding of what you're buying. This guide simplifies the four Cs of diamonds - Cut, Color, Clarity and Carat Weight - so you'll be ready to choose the diamond that's right for you.

•Cut - The cut of a diamond has a tremendous affect on its brilliance. Even if the diamond has perfect color and clarity, a poor cut can make a diamond look dull. Click here for more info.
•Color - Colorless and near-colorless diamonds are most highly valued and are priced accordingly. Other diamonds may have a slight tint of color, and some can even have a readily noticeable tint, which can diminish the brilliance. Click here for more info.
•Clarity - Diamonds completely free from internal flaws, or inclusions, are very rare and highly valued. Clarity is graded based on the number, location, size, and type of the inclusions found in a diamond. Click here for more info.
•Carat Weight - The weight of a diamond is measured in carats. Since larger diamonds are more rare than smaller diamonds, diamond value tends to rise exponentially with carat weight. Click here for more info.
More Diamond Info...
GIA: The GIA set the standard for diamond grading and gemological identification, and their grading system serves as the international gem and jewelry industry's benchmark.
AGSL: The AGSL uses a diamond grading system that ranks cut, color, and clarity on a zero to 10 scale, with zero being the most rare and desirable and 10 being the least desirable.
Learn about Pearls
When shopping for quality pearl jewelry, look for pearls with high luster, few surface markings and matching color, shape, and size.

Learn about Platinum
Appealing for its enduring qualities, platinum makes a great gift that will last to become an heirloom. Learn more about platinum durability and care.

Learn about Gemstones
Learn what to expect from clarity in an emerald, and how to recognize excellent color in sapphires and rubies.

Learn about Sterling Silver
Sterling silver is the standard for beautiful high-quality silver jewelry. It's over 90% pure silver, mixed with alloys to add strength and durability.
Learn about Gold
For beauty and durability, choose 18k gold. Pure 24k gold is soft and easily bent; 14k gold is mixed with other metals for strength, but this dulls its color.
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