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Cognac

Cognac coloured diamond that is dark brown

A Cognac diamond is a type of brown diamond that is characterized by its rich, warm brown hues with shades ranging from light yellow-brown to deep, intense reddish-brown. The name “Cognac” is derived from the rich, amber-like colour of the famous Cognac liquor, and it is used to describe diamonds that display a similar amber or reddish-brown colour.

Key Characteristics of Cognac Diamonds:
Colour Range:

Cognac diamonds can range from light brown to dark reddish-brown, with some stones exhibiting an almost amber or chocolate brown appearance. The deeper the colour, the more intense the cognac hue, which is what gives the diamond its signature name.
Overtones of yellow or red may also be present in higher-quality Cognac diamonds, giving them a more vivid and unique visual appeal.
Formation:

Cognac diamonds are formed in the same way as other diamonds, but their distinctive colour is caused by natural radiation during their formation process. The presence of certain elements, such as nitrogen, is responsible for the brown colour, which can vary in intensity depending on the diamond’s unique composition and the conditions under which it formed.
Diamond Grading and Colour:

Colour grading for Cognac diamonds follows the same system used for all diamonds, with diamonds being graded on a scale from D (colourless) to Z (light yellow or brown). Cognac diamonds typically fall in the range of K to Z on the colour scale.
While the grading system for diamonds typically focuses on the absence of colour (with more valuable diamonds being colourless), Cognac diamonds have their own unique appeal and are valued for their warm, rich colours rather than for being colourless or near-colourless.
Rarity and Value:

While brown diamonds are relatively common in nature, Cognac diamonds are rarer than other types of brown diamonds because of their deep, rich hue. High-quality Cognac diamonds with vibrant, intense colours are considered more valuable.
The value of a Cognac diamond is determined by its colour (depth and richness), clarity, and cut, just like any other diamond. However, the unique colour can make the Cognac diamond stand out and appeal to those looking for a more distinctive and fashionable stone.
Appearance and Appeal:

The warm brown tones of a Cognac diamond give it a distinctive, luxurious appearance that pairs well with various metal settings like rose gold, yellow gold, or platinum. The warm tones can make it an attractive choice for engagement rings, necklaces, and other fine jewellery pieces.
Cognac diamonds often have a vintage or antique aesthetic, making them popular for those seeking a more unique or unconventional look, as opposed to the traditional clear diamond.
Common Treatments:

Some brown diamonds, including Cognac diamonds, are treated to enhance their colour. HPHT (High Pressure High Temperature) treatment is one such method used to improve the colour and clarity of brown diamonds. However, Cognac diamonds with natural, untreated colour are considered more desirable and valuable.
Unlike other coloured diamonds (such as pink or blue diamonds), the natural brown colour of Cognac diamonds is typically well-regarded, and the treatment is not always necessary to enhance their beauty.
Why Choose a Cognac Diamond?
Unique Beauty: The warm, earthy tones of Cognac diamonds offer a unique alternative to traditional colourless diamonds. They stand out for their rich, luxurious look, which can be especially appealing for those looking for something distinctive.
Versatility in Design: Cognac diamonds pair beautifully with a variety of metals, particularly rose gold or yellow gold, which complement the diamond’s warm tones. They can be used in both modern and vintage-inspired jewellery designs.
Rarity: High-quality Cognac diamonds, especially those with deep, intense colour, are relatively rare and can be a special choice for engagement rings, anniversary rings, or other fine jewellery pieces.
Value: While the price of Cognac diamonds can vary depending on the size, quality, and colour saturation, they are generally more affordable than colourless diamonds of the same size and quality.
Cognac Diamond vs. Other Brown Diamonds
While brown diamonds are commonly referred to by a variety of names (such as chocolate, champagne, and cognac), Cognac diamonds are considered to be among the highest quality brown diamonds due to their rich, deep colour. Other brown diamonds, like champagne diamonds, tend to have lighter, more yellowish-brown hues, while Cognac diamonds typically feature a richer reddish-brown tone.

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Coated Diamond or Coating

A coated diamond refers to a diamond that has undergone a treatment where a thin layer of material is applied to the surface of the diamond to alter its colour, appearance, or shine. Coating can be used for aesthetic purposes or to improve certain aspects of the diamond, such as its resistance to scratches or its overall visual effect.

Common Types of Coatings Used on Diamonds
Colour Coating (Tinting)

Purpose: To alter the diamond’s colour, making it appear more vibrant or to give it a specific hue, such as blue, yellow, or pink.
How It’s Done: The diamond is coated with a thin layer of coloured material, often a chemical coating that reacts with the surface of the diamond.
Appearance: This can create a dramatic shift in the diamond’s overall look. However, the coating may wear off over time, especially if the diamond is exposed to wear or cleaning.
Temporary: Coated diamonds may lose their colour enhancement over time as the coating wears down.
Protective Coating

Purpose: To add a layer of protection to the diamond’s surface, preventing scratches, blemishes, and other damage.
How It’s Done: A thin, transparent layer is applied to the surface of the diamond. This can provide a protective shield that makes the diamond more resistant to daily wear and tear.
Durability: While protective coatings can help preserve the appearance of a diamond, they can wear off over time and may need to be reapplied.
Anti-Reflective Coating

Purpose: To reduce the reflection of light from the diamond’s surface and enhance its brilliance.
How It’s Done: A thin layer of material is applied to the surface of the diamond to prevent light from reflecting off the surface, which can enhance the visual appeal by making the diamond appear more sparkly and brilliant.
Effect: This is especially useful for diamonds with low-quality cuts or those that don’t display their full brilliance.
Black Coating

Purpose: To create a black diamond effect or to enhance the contrast between the diamond and its setting.
How It’s Done: A black coating is applied to the surface, giving the diamond a deep, opaque black appearance.
Appearance: This effect is mainly used in fashion jewellery or when creating novelty diamonds, not for traditional diamond engagement rings.
Permanence: The coating can wear off, especially in diamonds exposed to frequent handling or cleaning.
Considerations When Purchasing a Coated Diamond
Durability of the Coating

Many diamond coatings, especially those for colour enhancement, can wear off over time due to exposure to heat, chemicals, or physical wear. This makes coated diamonds less permanent in appearance than untreated diamonds.
Protective coatings can help preserve the diamond’s surface, but like other coatings, they will deteriorate over time and may require re-coating.
Value and Transparency

Coating treatments can decrease the value of a diamond, especially if the coating is used to alter the colour of a lower-quality diamond. Coating treatments are typically disclosed in diamond grading reports, so it’s important to verify the treatment when purchasing a coated diamond.
Coatings are usually not permanent, and their effect on the diamond’s long-term value can be unpredictable.
Ethical Considerations

Some consumers prefer natural, unaltered diamonds for their authenticity and value, while others may be drawn to coated diamonds for their unique appearance at a lower price point.
Be sure to inquire about the coating’s material, longevity, and whether it affects the diamond’s natural characteristics.
Impact on Resale

Diamonds that have been coated for cosmetic reasons, especially for colour, may have a lower resale value compared to untreated diamonds because of the potential wear of the coating over time.
If you’re purchasing a coated diamond as an investment, it’s important to consider that coatings might diminish the stone’s future market value.

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Cloud

A cloud in a diamond refers to a type of inclusion consisting of tiny, hazy clusters of fine, needle-like inclusions that appear as a clouded or milky area within the diamond. These inclusions are typically very small and difficult to see without magnification. A cloud can sometimes be composed of tiny crystals of carbon or other microscopic inclusions within the diamond.

Characteristics of Clouds in Diamonds
Appearance

A cloud in a diamond appears as a cloudy, hazy, or milky area within the stone. It is not a single inclusion but rather a group of inclusions that blend together, giving the effect of a cloud.
Clouds are typically microscopic in size, so they are often not visible to the naked eye, especially if they are near the centre of the diamond. However, they can affect the overall clarity and brilliance of the diamond.
Location of Clouds

Clouds can appear anywhere in the diamond, but they are typically found in the interior (internal inclusions) rather than on the surface.
If a cloud is near the surface of the diamond, it may be visible to the naked eye, affecting the diamond’s overall appearance.
Impact on Clarity

The presence of a cloud affects the diamond’s clarity grade, but whether it has a significant impact on its appearance depends on its size, location, and visibility.
If a cloud is large or located near the centre of the diamond, it may reduce the diamond’s brilliance and sparkle by obstructing light and causing the diamond to look cloudy or less transparent.
Small clouds that are not visible without magnification typically have little to no effect on the diamond’s overall appearance, and they may not significantly lower the clarity grade.
Clouds and Light Performance

Clouds can sometimes affect how light travels through the diamond, leading to a slight reduction in brilliance. However, in many cases, their effect on light performance is minimal, especially if the cloud is small or located in an inconspicuous part of the diamond.
Larger clouds may scatter light, causing the diamond to lose some of its fire (the dispersion of light into rainbow colours) and brilliance (the overall brightness or sparkle).
Grading Cloud Inclusions

Cloud inclusions are often considered when determining a diamond’s clarity grade. They typically fall under the “SI” (Slightly Included) or “I” (Included) categories depending on their size and visibility.
Diamonds with small, inconspicuous clouds may still receive high clarity grades like VS (Very Slightly Included) or VVS (Very, Very Slightly Included) if the cloud does not significantly affect the overall appearance of the stone.
Cloud vs. Other Inclusions
Feathers: Unlike clouds, which are made of multiple tiny inclusions, feathers are single inclusions that resemble cracks or fractures in the diamond. Feathers may be more easily seen or cause damage if they are near the surface.
Pinpoints: A pinpoint is a single, tiny inclusion, often a carbon crystal, and is generally much smaller than the inclusions found in a cloud.
Clouds and Diamond Value
The presence of a cloud can lower a diamond’s clarity grade, especially if it affects the stone’s appearance and brilliance. However, if the cloud is small and not visible to the naked eye, the impact on value may be minimal.
Diamonds with higher clarity grades, such as IF (Internally Flawless) or VVS, are typically priced higher than diamonds with visible inclusions like clouds.
Is a Cloud Bad for a Diamond?
A cloud doesn’t necessarily mean the diamond is “bad.” Many diamonds have small clouds that don’t affect their visual appeal. The key is whether the cloud is visible to the naked eye and if it reduces the diamond’s overall sparkle and brilliance.
High-quality diamonds with small or well-positioned clouds can still be stunning and maintain their value. The presence of a cloud is just one factor in a diamond’s overall quality assessment.

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Closed Table

A diamond with a relatively small table

A diamond with a relatively small table refers to a diamond where the table facet (the large, flat surface at the top of the diamond) is smaller in proportion to the overall size of the diamond than what is typically seen in other diamonds.

Understanding the Table in a Diamond
The table is the topmost, flat facet of the diamond, and it is usually circular in shape. It’s the largest facet and is positioned at the top of the stone.
The size of the table, along with the crown (the upper part of the diamond), plays a significant role in determining the diamond’s brilliance (how much light it reflects and how it sparkles).
Characteristics of a Diamond with a Small Table
Proportion of the Table

A diamond with a small table typically has a lower table-to-diameter ratio. In other words, the diameter of the table is smaller than in diamonds with more standard proportions.
This means that the facets surrounding the table are larger, which can affect how light enters and exits the diamond, influencing its sparkle.
Aesthetic Impact

A smaller table may result in a more subtle brilliance or a different light performance compared to diamonds with larger tables. It may create more interesting fire (the dispersion of light into colours) but at the cost of some overall brightness.
Cut Quality: The shape and proportions of the diamond are crucial to its overall appearance. A diamond with a small table may look slightly deeper, which could affect the way it sits in the setting and how light reflects from its surface.
Types of Diamonds with Small Tables

Diamonds like the princess cut or old European cut can sometimes feature smaller tables, especially if they are cut with more traditional proportions.
The round brilliant cut typically has a larger table compared to other cuts, so a small table in this cut might indicate a more unique or less conventional style.
Light Performance

In a diamond with a smaller table, light performance can be influenced by the diamond’s cut angles, depth, and crown. The smaller table may reflect light differently, potentially making the diamond seem less brilliant but with more internal sparkle or fire due to the increased number of larger facets.
Impact on Diamond’s Value

The cut and proportions of a diamond are crucial to its value. A smaller table might affect the overall appearance of the diamond, making it seem less brilliant, especially if it compromises the symmetry or light performance of the stone.
A diamond with a smaller table might be considered less desirable if it leads to undesirable proportions, as this could reduce its overall market appeal compared to diamonds with standard table sizes.
Choosing a Diamond with a Small Table:
If you’re considering a diamond with a relatively small table, make sure to focus on other important factors like the cut quality, symmetry, and light performance.
A well-cut diamond with a smaller table can still be beautiful, but it’s important to understand how the proportions affect the overall look of the stone.
Always check the diamond’s grading report from reputable labs like GIA or DCLA to ensure the proportions are in line with your aesthetic preferences and expectations.

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Cleavage

Cleavage in Diamonds

Cleavage in a diamond refers to the ability of a diamond to split or fracture along specific planes due to its crystalline structure. These planes of weakness occur naturally within the diamond’s crystal lattice, and if struck in the right way, the diamond may break or cleave along these lines. Cleavage is one of the most important characteristics of a diamond’s durability and is often associated with its vulnerability to damage.

Key Facts About Cleavage in Diamonds:
What Is Cleavage?

Cleavage refers to the breaking or splitting of a diamond along natural planes of weakness. These planes correspond to the directions in the diamond’s crystal structure where the bonds between atoms are weaker.
Diamond crystals have four cleavage planes, but these are rarely all present in a single diamond. The most common cleavage occurs along one or two of these planes.
Cleavage vs. Fracture:

Cleavage is a clean, smooth break that happens along the natural crystal planes, and it often occurs when a diamond is subjected to a sharp blow.
In contrast, a fracture (or crack) is a less predictable break, which can happen anywhere in the diamond and is generally irregular rather than smooth.
Vulnerability to Cleavage:

Because of its hardness (the hardest naturally occurring material), diamonds are not prone to breaking under normal conditions, but they can be shattered if hit with a strong impact in the right direction.
Sharp impacts or blows to a diamond, especially along its cleavage planes, can cause cleavage to occur, resulting in a clean break that might be irreparable.
Impact on the Diamond’s Value:

A diamond with cleavage is considered more fragile and less valuable than a diamond without cleavage, especially if the cleavage is visible or affects the diamond’s appearance.
Diamonds that are cut too thin or with sharp corners (such as certain fancy shapes like the princess cut) are more likely to develop cleavage fractures because they have less structural strength at those points.
Inclusions and natural fractures can sometimes affect the cleavage of a diamond, especially if the inclusions are near the cleavage planes.
Preventing Cleavage:

Careful Handling: Diamonds should be handled gently and not subjected to heavy blows or sharp impacts.
Setting: The setting plays a significant role in protecting the diamond from cleavage. A setting that covers or shields the diamond’s vulnerable edges, such as a bezel setting, can help prevent accidental damage.
Cleaning: Use gentle methods for cleaning diamonds. Ultrasonic cleaners or steam cleaners can sometimes cause stress to the diamond, leading to cleavage if the diamond is already weakened by a flaw.
Signs of Cleavage:

If a diamond has been damaged by cleavage, you may notice sharp, clean breaks at specific points along the diamond’s surface. These breaks are usually smooth and can sometimes be seen with magnification.
How to Avoid Cleavage-Related Damage:
When buying a diamond, especially a fancy-shaped diamond, it’s essential to ensure that the diamond is cut well to avoid thin or sharp points, which could make it more susceptible to cleavage.
Professional diamond setting and proper care and handling are critical to preventing damage to your diamond from impact.
Repairing Cleavage Damage:
If a diamond suffers cleavage, it cannot typically be repaired to its original state. However, re-cutting the diamond may be an option in some cases, though this could result in a reduction of carat weight.
In some cases, the diamond may be set in such a way that the cleavage is not visible, such as by using protective settings or prongs to shield the affected area.

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Clarity Enhancement

Clarity enhancement in diamond

Clarity enhancement in diamonds refers to the process of improving the appearance of a diamond by reducing the visibility of inclusions and blemishes. This is often done to diamonds with lower clarity grades to increase their marketability and value. However, it is important to note that clarity-enhanced diamonds can be priced differently from untreated diamonds, and the enhancement methods can affect their long-term durability and appearance.

Common Clarity Enhancement Techniques:
Laser Drilling

This process is used to remove dark inclusions, such as black carbon spots or feathers (small cracks), by creating a small hole through the diamond to the inclusion.
A laser beam is used to vaporize the inclusion, making it less visible.
Pros: This method can significantly improve the diamond’s clarity by removing visible inclusions.
Cons: The laser drilling process can leave a small tunnel or cavity in the diamond, which may affect its structural integrity and can be visible under magnification.
Fracture Filling (Laser-Enhanced or HPHT)

This method involves filling cracks or fractures (feathers) with a special glass-like substance or a material that is similar in appearance to the diamond itself.
The filler improves the clarity of the diamond by making the inclusion less noticeable.
Pros: It can improve the diamond’s appearance by making cracks and fractures blend with the diamond, especially for diamonds with I clarity grades.
Cons: Fracture-filled diamonds can be more prone to damage, as the filler material can be less durable than the diamond itself. It is also detectable by trained gemologists under magnification.
High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT) Treatment

This method is mainly used on diamonds with a brown or yellowish tint, but it can also be applied to enhance clarity.
It involves subjecting the diamond to extremely high pressure and temperature conditions, which can cause some inclusions (especially graining or carbon spots) to be less noticeable.
Pros: It is an effective way to reduce the appearance of certain inclusions and may improve the overall colour and clarity of the diamond.
Cons: HPHT treatment can cause certain inclusions to become more prominent over time, and the process is not always fully reversible.
Implications of Clarity Enhancement:
Impact on Value:

Clarity-enhanced diamonds are generally priced lower than untreated diamonds of the same carat weight, cut, and colour.
The enhancement can improve the diamond’s marketability, but it is important for buyers to understand that the treatment affects the diamond’s long-term value.
Disclosure and Transparency:

Ethical practices in the diamond industry require disclosure of any clarity enhancements, as these treatments can affect the diamond’s value and durability.
Gemological laboratories such as GIA and DCLA will include information on any clarity enhancements in the diamond’s grading report. It’s important for buyers to request this information when purchasing a diamond.
Durability:

Depending on the type of enhancement, the durability of the diamond may be impacted. For example, a fracture-filled diamond may be more susceptible to damage because the filling material is not as hard as the diamond.
It is recommended to be cautious when cleaning or setting clarity-enhanced diamonds, as the treatments can weaken the stone.
Resale and Investment Considerations:

Clarity-enhanced diamonds may not retain their value as well as untreated diamonds in the secondary market. Their resale value can be lower because of the treatments applied.
Should You Consider Clarity Enhancement?
Clarity-enhanced diamonds can be an affordable option for those looking to get a larger or more visually appealing diamond without the higher price tag of an untreated high-clarity stone.
However, it’s essential to weigh the potential downsides, including the risk of damage and reduced long-term value.

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Clarity

SI1: Inclusions are noticeable under 10x magnification, but not always visible to the naked eye.

Diamond clarity refers to the presence and visibility of inclusions (internal flaws) and blemishes (external flaws) within or on the surface of a diamond. The clarity of a diamond significantly affects its overall appearance, brilliance, and value.

Diamond Clarity Grading Scale
The Gemological Institute of America (GIA), one of the most respected grading authorities, uses a clarity scale to evaluate diamonds. The scale ranges from Flawless (FL) to Included (I3). The GIA clarity scale includes the following grades:

Flawless (FL)

No internal or external imperfections visible under 10x magnification.
The highest clarity grade and extremely rare.
Internally Flawless (IF)

No internal inclusions, but there may be minor surface blemishes visible under 10x magnification.
Very rare and highly valuable.
Very, Very Slightly Included (VVS1 and VVS2)

VVS1: Inclusions are extremely difficult to detect under 10x magnification.
VVS2: Inclusions are still very difficult to detect but may be visible to a skilled grader.
These diamonds have excellent clarity, and their inclusions are barely perceptible.
Very Slightly Included (VS1 and VS2)

VS1: Inclusions are difficult to detect under 10x magnification.
VS2: Inclusions are easier to see under magnification but still difficult for the untrained eye.
These diamonds are high quality and commonly found in fine jewellery.
Slightly Included (SI1 and SI2)

SI1: Inclusions are noticeable under 10x magnification, but not always visible to the naked eye.
SI2: Inclusions are visible under magnification and may be visible to the naked eye in some diamonds.
These diamonds are more affordable, but clarity is still relatively good.
Included (I1, I2, and I3)

I1: Inclusions are obvious under magnification and may be visible to the naked eye.
I2: Inclusions are easily visible and affect the diamond’s transparency and brilliance.
I3: Inclusions are highly visible and can affect the durability of the diamond.
Diamonds in this category are generally lower in value due to the impact of visible inclusions.
Factors Influencing Diamond Clarity
Size, Number, and Location of Inclusions: Larger or numerous inclusions generally lower the clarity grade. Inclusions near the centre of the diamond (table) are more impactful than those near the edges.
Type of Inclusions: Some inclusions, like feathers (small cracks) or carbon spots (small black dots), may be more noticeable than others.
Visibility: Whether inclusions are visible to the naked eye or only under magnification significantly affects the clarity grade.
Clarity and Diamond Value
Higher Clarity: Diamonds with higher clarity grades (like FL, IF, and VVS) tend to be rarer and more expensive.
Lower Clarity: Diamonds with lower clarity (such as SI and I grades) are more affordable, though they may have visible inclusions.
Clarity vs. Other Cs
While clarity is important, it is only one of the 4Cs that determine a diamond’s overall quality. Cut and colour are often more influential on a diamond’s brilliance and aesthetic appeal than clarity, especially when the inclusions are small or well-placed.

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CIBJO

CIBJO, also known as The World Jewellery Confederation, is a global organization that represents the jewellery industry. It brings together national jewellery trade associations from around the world to establish standards of practice, ethical guidelines, and global cooperation in the jewellery sector.

Key Facts About CIBJO (The World Jewellery Confederation):
Purpose and Mission

CIBJO’s mission is to unite national jewellery organizations to promote the interests of the global jewellery industry, while setting standards for quality, trade practices, and ethical business in the jewellery sector.
The confederation aims to ensure transparency in the jewellery trade and foster sustainable business practices while safeguarding the reputation of the industry.
Membership

CIBJO’s membership consists of national jewellery trade associations from various countries, including major players like India, the United States, Italy, and Australia.
It represents the interests of manufacturers, wholesalers, retailers, and other professionals in the jewellery supply chain.
Key Functions and Activities

Establishing Standards: CIBJO works to develop uniform standards for the jewellery industry, including the grading and certification of diamonds and coloured gemstones, and the ethical sourcing of materials.
Ethical Guidelines: The organization promotes ethical practices in the jewellery trade, ensuring that jewellery businesses operate with transparency, integrity, and responsibility.
Advocacy: CIBJO advocates for the interests of the jewellery industry at international trade bodies, helping shape policies that affect the sector.
Promoting Education: CIBJO organizes events and conferences aimed at improving industry knowledge and providing training for jewellery professionals.
The CIBJO Blue Book Series

CIBJO publishes a series of Blue Books that provide detailed, standardized guidelines on the grading and description of various jewellery materials, such as diamonds, gemstones, pearls, and precious metals.
These Blue Books are recognized and respected in the industry, offering a globally accepted reference for the jewellery trade.
Sustainability and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)

CIBJO promotes sustainable sourcing and corporate social responsibility (CSR) in the jewellery industry, encouraging members to adopt ethical practices and ensure that materials such as diamonds and gemstones are sourced responsibly.
The organization also supports the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme, which aims to prevent the trade in conflict diamonds.
Annual Congress and Conferences

CIBJO hosts an annual congress, bringing together industry leaders, experts, and professionals to discuss challenges, opportunities, and developments in the global jewellery trade.
Importance of CIBJO in the Jewellery Industry
CIBJO is an essential body for ensuring the smooth functioning of the global jewellery market, promoting fair trade, sustainability, and ethical practices. It offers guidance on a wide range of industry issues, including gemstone sourcing, product quality standards, and the future of the jewellery sector.

DCLA (Diamond Certification Laboratory of Australia) is the official CIBJO laboratory for Australia, ensuring that diamond grading and certification standards in the country align with global best practices set by CIBJO. This partnership helps maintain accuracy, consistency, and ethics in the jewellery trade, promoting transparency in the Australian diamond market and ensuring high-quality standards are met.

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Chip

A chipped diamond refers to a diamond that has sustained a small break or loss of material from its surface, typically at the edges or corners. Chipping is generally caused by impact or rough handling. While it may not affect the diamond’s overall structure, it can influence its appearance, value, and durability.

Key Points About Chipped Diamonds:
Causes of Chipping:

Impact: Diamonds are very hard but not immune to damage, especially if they experience a sudden blow or fall onto a hard surface.
Sharp Edges: Diamonds with sharper corners or thinner edges, such as those found in princess cuts or emerald cuts, are more prone to chipping.
Improper Setting: A diamond set in a way that leaves its edges exposed is at higher risk of chipping.
Impact on Value and Appearance:

Clarity: A chipped diamond may have a noticeable blemish that lowers its clarity grade. It can reduce the diamond’s brilliance, as light may not reflect as effectively from the damaged area.
Aesthetic: A chip is visible to the naked eye in most cases, especially if it’s located near the centre or on a large diamond.
Value: Chipped diamonds are typically worth less than those without damage. The degree of value loss depends on the size and location of the chip.
Repair Options:

Re-cutting: For diamonds with significant chips, a jeweler can re-cut the diamond to remove the damaged area, potentially enhancing the diamond’s overall appearance. However, this reduces the diamond’s carat weight.
Polishing: Small chips can sometimes be smoothed or polished to reduce visibility, though this may not completely eliminate the blemish.
Re-setting: If the chip is near the edge, a jeweler may also re-set the diamond in a protective setting, such as a bezel, to prevent further damage.
Prevention:

Careful Handling: To prevent chipping, diamonds should be handled carefully, especially if set in rings or worn frequently.
Secure Setting: Settings that protect the edges of the diamond, such as bezel or tension settings, can prevent damage.
Checking for Chips:

It’s essential to regularly inspect your diamond for any signs of damage, especially after a fall or impact. A professional inspection can also reveal chips that may not be easily noticeable with the naked eye.

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Champagne Diamond

Champagne Diamonds: A Unique Fancy-Coloured Diamond
A champagne diamond is a type of fancy-coloured diamond that exhibits a warm brown hue with subtle golden or yellow undertones, resembling the colour of champagne. These diamonds are prized for their unique earthy tones and affordability compared to traditional white diamonds.

Key Characteristics of Champagne Diamonds
Colour Range

Champagne diamonds range from light golden brown to deep cognac shades.
The colour intensity is determined by the presence of nitrogen in the diamond’s structure.
The Argyle Mine in Australia (now closed) famously produced some of the world’s finest champagne diamonds.
Grading & Classification
Unlike white diamonds, which are graded on the D-Z colour scale, champagne diamonds are classified based on their intensity:

C1 – C2: Light champagne
C3 – C4: Medium champagne
C5 – C6: Dark champagne
C7: Deep brown (also called Cognac Diamond)
Cut & Shape

Champagne diamonds are cut in various shapes, with round, oval, cushion, and pear cuts being popular.
A well-cut champagne diamond enhances its brilliance and highlights its warm tones.
Rarity & Value

While not as rare as pink or blue diamonds, high-quality champagne diamonds with strong brilliance and even colour distribution are highly sought after.
They are generally more affordable than traditional colourless diamonds, making them an attractive alternative.
Symbolism & Popularity

Champagne diamonds symbolize elegance, warmth, and individuality.
They are increasingly popular in engagement rings and bespoke jewellery due to their distinct and sophisticated look.