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We’re designers right? Why do we need to know about Diamonds?

LionSorbet do two things very well. We design and manufacture bespoke Jewellery using 3D CAD CAM and Rapid Prototyping techniques, and we create beautiful Jewellery photography and animations of Diamond and Gem Stone Jewellery.

So how does this relate to a creative design consultancy such as LionSorbet?

Although LionSorbet do not sell Diamonds or Diamond Jewellery we do have to have a good understanding of the principles of Diamond grading and an intricate knowledge of each cut and style of Diamond available today. This is for two reasons. Firstly to ensure that when we design and manufacture Jewellery we can build them around a particular size and cut of stone, this is important when customers already have a Diamond or Gemstone and require a mount to fit it perfectly once manufactured. Secondly to create photo-realistic Jewellery Photography of Diamonds and Gemstones we have to model each stone exactly to enable the light to pass through each facet in the correct way. If our models are incorrect or our understanding of its material properties inaccurate our images and animations will not look like real photography. We make it our job to guarantee that every engagement ring, wedding ring or jewellery item is produced to the highest standards.

Understanding the basic principles of diamond grading is key to ensure perfect looking images that sparkle and shine. For this the industry uses the term “The Four C’s”

A brief overview of diamond grading

“The 4 C’s” are generally a guide to Diamond Grading and is a measurement that affects a diamonds price and inherent value.

The 4 C’s – CUT | COLOUR | CLARITY | CARAT |

CUT.
When referring to the cut of the diamond the angles and proportions of the stone are being worked on. The shape of the diamond will also be affected by the cut. The most familiar stones are Round, Square, Pear and Heart. Once complete the sparkle and configuration will be determined.

COLOUR.
The degree to which the diamond is more colourless normally determines the value of the stone. Therefore, the clearer the diamond the more its worth.

CLARITY.
The number of tiny flaws and inclusions within the diamond also reflects the cost of the stone. If the diamond is truly clear of all possible flaws it is termed ‘flawless’ and will hold a higher value.

CARAT.
The weight of the diamond determines the size of the diamond. Smaller diamonds can actually be more expensive than larger diamonds, depending on the clarity and cut of the stone.