There are different diamonds. They can shine brighter than the North Star on a moonless night, or they can seem just like a piece of the transparent mineral. We use only the best diamonds in our jewelry, which are lively, elegant, luxurious, and impressive.
Not every found diamont deserves to be part of a Goldsmith jewelry. The diamonds we use are cut by the most talented craftsmen and mined in the world’s best mines. This is why the artfully crafted diamonds from Goldsmith are mesmerizing at first sight.
4C
Each diamond is unique like a fingerprint. Each one has its own peculiarities inherent only to it. The 4C system is used to assess the quality of diamonds – cut, clarity, color, and carat weight.
Based on this system, each diamond is assigned a rating. There are two international assessment standards – GIA and CIBJO. We use only diamonds of the highest clarity and detailed cut. Our company employs a certified diamond appraiser who checks each one before it is used in jewelry.
Cut
“Wild” diamonds don’t look very pretty. They are cut to make them really shine and turn into luxurious diamonds. How exactly the stone will shine depends on the quality and approach to the cut.
What is gem cut?
Cut is the “overcasting” of a diamond. Panes and facets are applied to the stone. How the diamond will shine depends on which method of cutting was used, how complicated, proportional and symmetrical it is.
Cut is the most important parameter from the 4C system. The beauty of the stone depends primarily on it. Even a very large diamond with a crystal clear structure can be dull and subtle if cut incorrectly. Conversely, a small stone can shine and attract attention.
That is why every Goldsmith diamond, from the smallest to the largest, is cut correctly to the most exacting standards.
Why is cut so important?
If a diamond is poorly or incorrectly cut, it looks dull and cloudy. Even if the stone is large and very clear. In a properly cut diamond, light is reflected and refracted, making it shine luxuriously.
Goldsmith jewelry uses diamonds with regular, symmetrical, and complicated cuts. That is why they shine. Each diamond is cut by the talented craftsmen of our partners, then checked by our specialist, and only after that is inserted into the jewelry.
What influences the quality of the cut?
Cut quality is the only parameter of the 4C system that depends on the person. Two diamonds may be of the same clarity, color and weight, but look completely different. It is this beauty that is determined by the quality of the cut.
Simply put, how well a diamond is cut determines how brightly it shines.
Cut quality is determined by three factors:
- Accuracy. How well the sizes and angles of inclination of the facets correlate with the natural geometry of the stone.
- Symmetry. How well the applied bevels fit together.
- Polishing. How well the edges are placed and detailed, as well as all the external stone finishing.
Only exceptionally finely cut diamonds with perfect symmetry and polishing receive the highest grade – Excellent according to the GIA system. And these are the diamonds that we use in our jewelry. When you buy an engagement ring or a Goldsmith classic with a round white diamond, you can be sure that this stone will shine and attract attention because it has an exceptional cut.
Table of gem cuts
Goldsmith only uses exceptionally-cut diamonds (Excellent). Many jewelers, seeking to reduce the cost of jewelry, can buy stones with lower quality – Very Good, Good, Fair, Bad cut.
Even the Good level can degrade the beauty of a diamond, a superficial or, conversely, too deep cut leads to the fact that the light goes down and to the side edges. The stone just doesn’t shine, it looks dull or even cloudy. The Fair and Bad quality grades are characterized by shifted edges and asymmetry, as a result of which the diamond may even stop shining and look like just a piece of glass.
That is why we only use Excellent cut diamonds.
The gemological industry standards specified in this section apply only to individually registered diamonds set in designated engagement rings.
Types of gem cuts
Each Goldsmith diamond is expertly cut to maximize sparkle and brilliance. However, the cuts themselves are different. There are three types – diamond, trap, and mixed.
Diamond cut
Brilliant cut is the most common type of cut. It involves the application of facet faces to the stone in the form of a triangle or rhombus. This “geometry” provides the maximum return of light – almost all rays hitting the diamond from above are refracted and reflected in it so that they also exit through the upper facets. That is why the diamond shines.
The brightest cut is round, which consists of 57 or 58 facets. But the diamond “geometry” is also applied to other shapes – “marquise”, “heart”, “cushion”, oval and pear-shaped. That is why such diamonds also shine.
Trap cut
Trap cut is usually applied to large diamonds. The stone is covered with trapezoid-shaped facets. This “geometry” provides maximum light transmission, so the trap cut allows you to emphasize the clarity, transparency, and color of the diamond.
The most common type of trap cut is emerald. A stone cut in this way has a rather large flat “plateau” on top, which emphasizes transparency and color.
Gem clarity
Diamond is a natural mineral. Therefore, in some cases, it can be born in the thickness of the earth already with impurities inside. Perfectly pure diamonds are rare and highly prized.
What is gem clarity?
The clarity of a diamond is the number of impurities found in the stone. The more there are, the lower the clarity is. Gem-quality diamonds have very little or no impurities and defects. And these are the stones that are used in Goldsmith jewelry.
To check the purity, the diamond appraiser examines the diamond under a 10x optical instrument. All defects, both superficial and internal, are recorded. If a diamond is of low clarity, it cannot be used in jewelry.
Table of gem clarity
All diamond defects are divided into two types – internal (inclusions) and superficial. And if the stone has imperfections visible to the naked eye, Goldsmith simply rejects it.
Clarity class | Description |
FL | No defects, perfectly clear diamond |
IF | No internal defects |
VVS1, VVS2 | There are minor inclusions that practically do not interfere with the brilliance |
VS1, VS2 | There are minor inclusions that almost do not interfere with the brilliance |
SI1, SI2 | There are minor inclusions |
I1, I2, I3 | There are noticeable inclusions |
The gemological industry standards specified in this section apply only to individually registered diamonds set in specified engagement rings.
Goldsmith clarity standard
Goldsmith employs a rigorous diamond clarity grading system that is based on the expert knowledge and significant experience of our employees. But we are also taking the right approach. If a diamond has a borderline clarity class, it is assigned a lower degree, we do not overestimate the clarity level.
Influence of gem clarity on its brilliance
The brilliance of a diamond is due to the fact that the incident light is reflected and refracted in the stone, going out through the upper facets. Any internal defects absorb the rays. The more inclusions, the less light the diamond returns, and, as a result, the worse it shines. In addition, with a large number of defects, the stone looks cloudy.
Color of the diamond
What is the color of the diamond?
Color is the hue that is inherent in natural white diamonds. Unfortunately, not all of them are completely transparent and colorless. Most natural stones have a slight yellowish tint. Completely colorless diamonds are extremely rare.
In jewelry, a grading table is used, which involves determining the color of a diamond by comparing it with a reference. After that, the stone is assigned an alphabetic designation code. Colorless stones are designated as “D”, light yellow – as “Z”. The shades between them are marked with the rest of the letters of the English alphabet.
Table of the colors of the diamond
Goldsmith engagement rings use only colorless or near colorless diamonds – grades D, E, F, G, H, I and J. If the evaluator is in doubt, a lower grade is awarded.
Color class | Description |
D, E, F | Colorless |
G, H, I, J | Almost colorless |
K, L, M | Pale yellow |
N, O, P, Q, R | Very light yellow |
S, T, U, V, W, X, Y, Z | Light yellow |
The gemological industry standards specified in this section apply only to individually registered diamonds set in specified engagement rings.
Is the color of the diamond important?
Diamond color is the second most important parameter of the 4C system. After all, the appearance and beauty of the stone depends on it! Low grade diamonds can have an ugly yellowish tint that does not look as luxurious as colorless white.
In addition, when evaluating the color, the Goldsmith specialist does not miss diamonds that have excessive fluorescence (glow in ultraviolet light). If it is too strong, the stone may become milky in sunlight.
Carat weight of the diamond
What is carat weight of the diamond?
Carat is a unit of measure for weight, not the size of a diamond. It is equal to 0.2 grams. Accordingly, for example, a 5-carat diamond has a weight of 1 gram. Moreover, the beauty of the stone does not depend on weight, but on the quality of the cut, purity, and color. Therefore, Goldsmith experts give priority to these indicators when evaluating them, rather than weight.
Goldsmith’s diamond weights are measured to the nearest 1/1000th carat.
Table of carat weights of the diamond
The carat weight of diamonds is more of a “statistical” indicator. Two stones can have the same weight, but their sizes will differ depending on the type and depth of cut. A “heavy” diamond is not necessarily larger than a light one. This is true for almost all types of cuts – round, cushion, heart, princess, marquis, radiant, pear-shaped, oval, emerald.
Diamonds are sized to show proportions and do not correspond to actual carats.
The more carats, the better?
Carat weight alone is not the main determinant of a diamond’s value. For example, two stones with the same weight may have different prices. The cost depends on the type of cut, quality, clarity, color.
In addition, it is important to understand that large, perfect-quality diamonds are extremely rare. The larger the size of the stone, the higher the probability of finding inclusions-defects in it, for example.
Shapes of diamonds
There is no one “perfect” diamond shape; each has its own appeal and uniqueness. Therefore, you can choose a stone that perfectly reflects your style and the characteristics of your relationship.
What is the shape of diamond?
Shape is the geometric feature of a diamond. According to this parameter, all stones are divided into two groups – round and fancy.
Round diamonds (brilliant cut diamonds) are the most traditional type of gemstone. They have a shape close to a circle. If you look at the stone from above, its side faces will fold into a circle.
Fancy-cut diamonds are not circular in shape. For example, “princess” is close to a square, “marquis” is an elongated oval with two pointed ends, and “pear” with one. In addition to them, the fancy cut includes “cushion”, “heart”, oval and emerald.
Goldsmith table of diamond shapes
Every person is unique. Every relationship is unique. That’s why Goldsmith offers a variety of diamond shapes and cuts – so you can choose a stone that perfectly reflects your style, your character, your love.
Round cut diamond
Round cut is one of the most popular and widespread. It is thanks to it that the maximum brilliance and incredible shine of the diamond is achieved. The round cut involves the application of at least 56 facets to the stone, which reflect and refract light, giving rise to tiny rainbows and “sunbeams”.
When we design Goldsmith engagement rings, we use perfect round diamonds with unrivaled symmetry and polished facets to make them as impressive as your love.
“Princess” cut diamond
“Princess” is one of the most popular fantasy cuts. She became famous for her modern style and flamboyance. Princess cut diamonds have a pointed square shape and are covered with more than 50 chevron-shaped facets. Due to the special play of light, the stone has a visually “deep heart” and shining edges.
In addition to square ones, there are also rectangular princess cut diamonds.
Emerald cut diamond
Emerald cut is ideal for large, clear stones as it helps highlight their clarity and size. These diamonds are rectangular in shape with parallel facets and trapezoidal facets with a large and open area in the center.
The emerald cut is perfect for those looking for an Art Deco engagement ring.
Cushion cut diamond
Cushion is an interpretation of the classic round cut with a more modern and vibrant style. The diamond has the shape of a rounded square with arcuate or parallel edges and rounded corners. Due to the large number of facets, the stone “plays” and shimmers in the light, which makes this cut ideal for an engagement ring.
Oval diamonds
The oval cut combines the brilliance of the round with the sophistication of the marquise. Diamonds are covered with small facets and therefore shimmer in the light with all shades of the rainbow. A ring with a stone of this cut visually lengthens the fingers and has a non-standard, sophisticated and elegant look.
Pear cut diamond
The pear-shaped cut is another successful experiment to combine the classic approaches: round and marquis. These diamonds have an original shape, and numerous facets create a unique play of light. Like the oval cut, pear-shaped rings visually lengthen the fingers, especially if the pointed end of the diamond is directed towards the nail.
Goldsmith’s pear-cut diamonds have a strict symmetry, and their unusual shape and incredible beauty are emphasized by a non-standard setting.
Heart-shaped diamonds
Heart-cut diamonds are a classic symbol of love and high feelings. Complex facet geometry, incredible symmetry and unsurpassed clarity make them incredibly rare. These diamonds are a choice for true romantics and people who want to emphasize the depth of the connection with their loved one.
What is the difference between cut and shape of the diamond?
Strictly speaking, the shape and cut of a diamond are not the same thing. For example, round stones can have simplified cut, Swiss cut, royal cut, or stately cut. The shape of a diamond is a geometric characteristic. And faceting is a method of processing (covering) a stone with facets.
However, the cut determines the shape of the diamond. You cannot apply an 86-face “royal” cut to a princess-shaped stone. Therefore, the shape is also called a cut.
Does shape influence the brilliance?
Each facet of a diamond is like a small semi-transparent mirror. It reflects light. The upper edges collect and redirect the rays, while the lower ones reflect from the inside. This is why the diamond shines.
Each of the existing cuts was created specifically in order to maximize the features of the diamond. For example, a round one allows the stone to shine especially brightly. “Princess” lends elegant depth combined with shine. And the emerald one reveals the clarity and color of the stone.
But the brilliance depends not only on the type of cut, but also on the clarity and color of the diamond. Therefore, Goldsmith experts check every stone very carefully. And if a diamond is found to have a defect visible to the naked eye, it will be rejected.
Which shape creates the most intensive brilliance?
All Goldsmith diamonds are cut to provide maximum brilliance, no matter the shape. But the degree itself and some features of the radiance differ depending on the form. However, it is important to note that there are no “good” and “bad” cuts, they do not shine “better” or “worse”, they shine differently.
Diamonds of which shape are the biggest?
Diamond size is a variable characteristic. This is not to say that, for example, the pear-shaped shape is the largest, because you can find a round stone that is larger in size.
However, many connoisseurs believe that, all other things being equal, oval, emerald and pear cut diamonds look larger than round ones. Nevertheless, the round ones shine brightly, and therefore visually also seem to be impressively large.
Goldsmith uses exceptionally high-quality cut diamonds that shine as brightly and effectively as possible. So you don’t have to worry about the size. Choose the shape that you especially like.
Models and settings of engagement rings
Each of Goldsmith’s single-stone engagement rings is designed to let you talk about your true love without words. We will tell you about how we make such jewelry. You can learn more about how gem setting works, as well as classic and modern engagement rings from traditional single gemstones to contemporary pave and halo designs.
We make Goldsmith engagement rings with all our skills and experience. And the diamonds used in such jewelry undergo the strictest control for compliance with the most stringent and highest standards.
What is the setting of the engagement ring?
Setting is a metal structure that fixes the gem in a ring. It is also designed to highlight the beauty of a diamond. Different types and styles of setting create different aesthetics.
Setting is used in all rings, regardless of the type – solitaire diamond, halo or three stones.
What is an engagement ring with a solitaire diamond?
An engagement ring with a solitaire diamond is a piece of jewelry with one large complex-cut stone. This is a classic option for making a marriage proposal. A solitaire diamond is usually large in size and complex cut, therefore it is distinguished by its incredible beauty and spectacular appearance.
The classic version of solitaire diamond engagement rings is a round cut stone. But fancy diamond shapes look no less impressive and luxurious.
What is a halo engagement ring?
Halo engagement rings use complex combinations of multiple stones. A large diamond is in the center which will surround the smaller diamonds. The halo makes the center stone especially impressive and effective. This is why halo rings are so popular.
What is a three stone engagement ring?
Three is a truly magical number. Therefore, three stones on one ring create incredible harmony, enhancing each other’s dazzling beauty. The center diamond is usually round or fancy and is larger than the side ones. This approach emphasizes the incredible beauty of each stone, and together they create an impressive ensemble.
Goldsmith engagement rings settings
To make your engagement ring truly impressive and speak of your love, Goldsmith jewelers create custom settings for each gem. The setting is made taking into account the size and shape of the diamond. The setting is chosen in such a way as to emphasize the beauty of the gem so that it impresses and mesmerizes with its brilliance from any angle.
Here’s a look at what frames are used in Goldsmith engagement rings.
Prong setting
Prong setting is the most classic option. This setting involves fixing the stone with small metal “legs”. They hold the diamond by the girdle – the side face. The upper part of the “legs” is located on the edges of the crown to prevent the stone from falling out.
The prong setting raises the stone above the ring, so that light enters the diamond not only from above, but also from the sides, and also exits from all sides. Therefore, the brilliance and radiance of the stone fixed in this way is truly maximum.
Bead setting
Bead setting is often used to secure small accent stones, especially those located at the edges of the ring. It helps diamonds shine and sparkle. To create such a setting, jewelers lift small semicircular sheets of metal from the top of the metal, which fix the stones.
Because precious metals reflect light, diamonds in bead-set Goldsmith engagement rings sparkle in the light as they are worn and moved.
“Pave” setting
The pave setting is used to fix small diamonds in gemstone bands to the surface of the ring. It is in many ways similar to the corner one. However, in a pave setting, the stones have common concretions.
The word “pave” itself is translated from French as “paving”. And, indeed, with such a setting, the stones are placed close to each other. This setting helps Goldsmith pave diamond engagement rings shine, yet look modern and elegant.
Channel setting
Channel setting involves fixing a gem between two metal walls. It fits very tightly and securely. In Goldsmith engagement rings, the distance between the metal and the gemstone cannot be greater than the thickness of a sheet of paper.
Channel setting creates an unusual and original play of light, its flow becomes continuous. In addition, this setting looks non-standard and modern.
Tension setting
Tension setting is one of the most modern and sophisticated ways of fixing a gem in a ring. The diamond is set in a slot in the metal. The rim creates pressure on it, which ensures a secure fit. At the same time, it seems as if the diamond is hanging in the air.
Goldsmith tension-set engagement rings are prized for their impressive appearance, original design and incredible play of light, the diamond creates a continuous stream of sparkle from all directions.
Bezel setting
Bezel setting implies the “drowning” of the diamond in the metal, the gem is fixed with a gold or silver rim in such a way that only its crown (upper part) protrudes above the surface of the ring. This setting looks modern, original and minimalistic.
Goldsmith bezel-set engagement rings are suitable for those looking for a low set ring. In addition, they are characterized by a non-standard, minimalist design that fits perfectly into almost any look.
V-prong setting
Goldsmith V-prong set engagement rings feature an elegant design. This method of setting allows the diamond to rise above the surface – and “make” it shine as brightly as possible.
The V-prong setting has a complex design. The edges of the shank of the ring are bent, lifted up, separated, and a diamond is fixed between them. Refined and elegant design creates a high fit and enhances the beauty of the gem.
Inbuilt setting
Inbuilt setting is the most reliable way to fix and protect a gem. To create such an engagement ring, our jewelers drill holes in the shank, set diamonds in them, and then compact the metal around the girdle.
With inbuilt setting, the stone does not protrude above the surface of the ring (or protrudes slightly). That is why it turns out to be the most protected from various external factors and shocks.
Tracking diamonds
Jewelry craftsmanship begins with respect for nature and for other people’s work. Therefore, we carefully select our partner suppliers of precious stones. We know that each of the companies we do business with respects human rights, respects the Kimberley Process and protects the environment, and we check this regularly. We have complete control over the supply chai, we know where each diamond was mined, how it was processed, cut and transported before it becomes part of your jewelry.
Engagements rings
Goldsmith introduces engagement rings as you know them. We carefully preserve traditions from ancient times, complementing them with a modern approach, the skill of our skilled jewelers and the unsurpassed quality of diamonds. Goldsmith engagement rings combine history, craftsmanship and technology to embody your love.