Category: Glossary

Describes a pattern that appears in some round brilliant cut and square cushion cut diamonds that have a certain parallelism and symmetry. When viewed from above through the crown, the pattern is a series of eight arrowheads. From below through the pavilion, the pattern appears as eight heart shapes. Hearts & arrows does not mean that a diamond is ideal cut, only that it is symmetrical.

Measure of resistance to scratching and abrasion. Diamond is the hardest material on earth, a 10 on Moh’s Scale; however, it is not the toughest. Hardness and toughness together determine the durability of diamond.

Refers to the wider, rounded end of a pear cut diamond.

A diamond with a natural green body colour. Green must be the predominant colour, but it may be modified by shades of yellow or blue. The colour in natural green diamonds is created by exposure to natural irradiation in the earth that produces structural defects; natural green diamonds are extremely rare. Some green coloured diamonds with sufficient saturation fall into the valuable fancy green colour category of diamonds.

A complete, accurate report describing the specific characteristics of a diamond, issued by a recognised and independent diamond grading laboratory. A diamond grading report lists all the characteristics of a diamond that allows you to determine its current appraisal and fair market value. Also called a Diamond Certificate. A diamond grading report is not an appraisal and does not contain a monetary value. Click here for a guide to the information that a diamond grading report must have.

Term used to describe a diamond weighing approximately 0.25 of a carat. In ancient times, 1.00 carat was equal to about four grains of rice. A “four grainer” would thus be referring to a diamond weighing approximately 1.00 carat (4 x 0.25=1.00).

The science, art, and profession of identifying and evaluating of all gemstones, including diamonds.

The outermost edge or rim of a diamond that outlines its shape. It is the circumference or perimeter that appears to divide the crown from the pavilion. A girdle may be faceted, polished, or bruted. The purpose of the girdle is to protect the diamond from damage such as chips.