Diamond Education
Your Guide to Buying Diamonds

Cut: The Most Important Factor

Diamond cut is the most crucial of the 4Cs, as it is determined by human craftsmanship. Cut refers to a diamond’s proportions, symmetry, and finish—all of which directly impact brilliance and sparkle.

A well-cut diamond reflects light beautifully, creating maximum fire and brilliance. We offer GIA and AGS graded diamonds, the industry’s most respected standards, ensuring exceptional cut quality.

Why it matters: Two diamonds with identical color, clarity, and carat weight can look dramatically different based on cut alone.

Color: From Colorless to Fancy Hues

Diamond color grading measures the absence of color, ranging from D (colorless) to Z (light yellow or brown).

• D–F (Colorless): Rarest and most valuable
• G–J (Near-Colorless): Excellent balance of quality and affordability
• K–M (Faint Color): Noticeable warmth, budget-friendly
• N–Z (Light Color): Visible yellow or brown tones

Most engagement ring diamonds fall within the D–J range. We also offer fancy color diamonds in pink, blue, yellow, and green, which are graded using different standards.

Clarity: Understanding Diamond Purity

Clarity measures internal inclusions and external blemishes. We carefully select diamonds to ensure no visible inclusions to the naked eye.

• FL–IF: No inclusions under 10x magnification. Extremely rare.
• VVS1–VVS2: Minute inclusions, difficult to see even under magnification.
• VS1–VS2: Minor inclusions, excellent value with eye-clean appearance.
• SI1–SI2: Visible under magnification but not to the naked eye. Great value.
• I1–I3: Visible inclusions that may affect appearance. Generally avoided.

Carat Weight: Size and Rarity

Carat measures diamond weight, with one carat equaling 200 milligrams. Larger diamonds are exponentially rarer and more valuable.

• Well-cut diamonds appear larger than poorly cut stones of the same weight
• Balancing carat weight with cut, color, and clarity maximizes beauty and value

Our team helps you find the ideal balance between size and brilliance within your budget.

Diamond Shapes: Classic to Contemporary

Diamond shape defines the outline and facet arrangement. Each shape offers unique brilliance patterns and aesthetic appeal.

• Round Brilliant: Maximum sparkle, timeless classic
• Princess: Modern square cut with brilliant facets
• Cushion: Soft corners with romantic vintage appeal
• Emerald: Step-cut elegance with a hall-of-mirrors effect
• Oval: Elongated brilliance, appears larger per carat
• Pear: Elegant teardrop shape, distinctive and unique
• Asscher: Vintage Art Deco square with dramatic faceting
• Radiant: Brilliant sparkle in square or rectangular form

Diamond shape is deeply personal. Beyond brilliance, each shape carries its own symbolism and emotional resonance. We’ll guide you to the perfect match.

Diamond Certificates: The 5th C

A diamond certificate, also known as a grading report, is essential for any significant diamond purchase. Prepared by independent gemologists, it details measurements, weight, color, clarity, cut grade, and more.

• Verifies the diamond matches provided specifications
• Provides an unbiased third-party assessment
• Protects your investment
• Required for insurance purposes

Hourglass Diamonds relies exclusively on independent laboratories such as GIA, AGS, and IGI. We never use in-house certificates, ensuring complete transparency.

Beware: Retailers issuing their own certificates may inflate grades. Always insist on independent certification.

Ready to Find Your Perfect Diamond?

With the right diamond knowledge, you’re prepared to make a confident choice. Our team helps you select a diamond that balances beauty, quality, and budget—creating a piece you’ll cherish forever.