Magic and Brilliance for Eternity
The purchase of a diamond is never merely a valuable acquisition. A diamond is a legacy for eternity and perhaps the most precious gift one person can give to another. It has the power to express all the feelings that words can hardly describe: love, happiness, admiration, passion, gratitude, strength, loyalty, and immortality. Whatever feeling you wish to express with a diamond, we are delighted to provide you with our expertise in guiding your choice. Our experience and passion for diamonds ensure that you always have the best selection of diamonds, ethically sourced in accordance with the United Nations' Kimberley Process. This commitment is guaranteed by our core values.
Value and Evaluation of Diamonds
No two diamonds in the world are the same. Each diamond is a unique and distinct masterpiece created by nature, making it exceptional in its own way. How does one determine the differences and, therefore, the value of a diamond? The worldwide grading standard is based on the evaluation criteria set by the International Diamond Council (IDC), known as the 4 Cs, and their various combination possibilities with different scales: Carat (Weight), Color, Clarity, and Cut.
1. carat - weight
The unit of measurement for the weight of diamonds is Carat. One Carat is equivalent to 0.2 grams. Generally, the heavier and larger a stone, the more valuable it is. However, stones with the same weight can vary significantly in price depending on their clarity, cut quality, or color. The weight of a brilliant can provide an approximate indication of its size, as the proportions are nearly identical for the same cut.
It's important to note that diamonds with the same weight can look different due to their cuts and proportions. For example, a diamond with an optimal cut may appear larger than a diamond with a poorer cut, despite both having the same weight.
2. color
The color of a diamond is subject to the whim of nature. By definition, a diamond is the cubic modification of carbon and is absolutely colorless in its perfect form. Such stones are of the utmost rarity and correspond to certification grade D. Diamonds that fall outside the D-Z color scale are called "fancy diamonds." They can occur in all colors of the rainbow and their value grows with increasing color intensity.
SCHAFFRATH is your reliable source for naturally colored diamonds. Thanks to our trusting partnerships with Antwerp and the other major diamond trading centers, which have grown over decades, we are able to offer our customers diamonds from the entire spectrum available on the world market: in all sizes, colors, shapes and price ranges.
3. clarity
The clarity of a diamond refers to the presence of inclusions and impurities inside and on its surface. These inclusions can consist of other minerals, traces of foreign materials, or even tiny cracks that can form during the diamond's crystallization process. Diamonds are formed from carbon compounds under extremely high pressure and temperature deep within the Earth's crust over millions of years.
Flawless diamonds are very rare and valuable, as they exhibit exceptional brilliance and clarity. However, most diamonds have at least minor inclusions or impurities, and their evaluation depends on how visible these characteristics are and how they impact the beauty and appearance of the diamond.
4. cut
The cut is crucial for the brilliance of the diamond. It is the only criterion in the evaluation that is not naturally given. Therefore, it solely relies on the craftsmanship and precision of the cutter to bring out the perfect light reflection, known as total internal reflection, through ideal proportions and optimal symmetry and the arrangement of facets. The higher the quality of the cut, the brighter the sparkle, the stronger the fire (the color reflection of individual light waves), and the scintillation (the twinkling) of the diamond.
In the diagram, the area marked in red on the left illustrates the part that distinguishes a poorly cut diamond from one with very good proportions and outstanding brilliance. This part would need to be removed to obtain a diamond with perfect cut quality and total internal reflection.
Fancy Cut
The diamond's shape plays a crucial role in its beauty, brilliance, and overall appearance. There are various cut shapes, each with its own unique features and characteristics. Diamonds that are not cut in the traditional brilliant shape are referred to as fancy cuts.
SCHAFFRATH's jewelry with fancy cut diamonds are artistic masterpieces with their own distinct character. Each piece of jewelry is created in harmony with the chosen fancy cut stone. Among the regularly processed shapes are: marquise, pear, oval, and cushion cut.
A DIAMOND MADE TO MEASURE
WE AIM FOR YOUR DESIRES
Ask your jeweler for a SCHAFFRATH diamond. We are happy to provide you with a tailored selection based on your desired criteria or offer guidance in collaboration with your local jeweler. Additionally, we can create a custom-designed piece of jewelry according to your preferences, complementing the chosen diamond.
No matter where in the world you purchase a SCHAFFRATH diamond, one thing is certain: it will be the best value for your money. For nearly 100 years, we have passed down our diamond expertise, passion, and experience for this exquisite gem from one generation to the next. With a discerning eye and extensive knowledge, we evaluate the stones worthy of bearing the SCHAFFRATH name. Since 1923, we have provided every SCHAFFRATH diamond with our certified assurance and certificates from independent gemological institutes such as GIA*, AGS**, or HRD***.
* Gemolocical Institute of America. / ** American Gem Society. / *** High Council for Diamonds, Antwerp.
