DIAMOND GUIDE
Choosing a diamond that feels right.
A little understanding can make a meaningful choice feel simpler. Explore the essentials, then let us help you find the diamond for your design.
Understanding the 4Cs
Cut, colour, clarity and carat weight help describe a diamond’s quality. Together, they provide a starting point for comparing stones. Its appearance, proportions and suitability for your design matter too.
Light brought to life
Cut describes how a diamond’s proportions, symmetry and finish influence its interaction with light. Thoughtful cutting brings together brightness, flashes of colour and sparkle.
Shape describes the outline, such as round or oval. Cut concerns how the diamond has been fashioned. Fancy shapes need individual consideration of their proportions and appearance.
When choosing: give attention to how the diamond handles light, alongside its size and grades.
From colourless to softly warm
The standard D–Z scale grades diamonds according to the presence of yellow or brown tones. Differences between neighbouring grades can be subtle.
Shape, size, lighting and the surrounding metal can influence how colour appears. Fancy-coloured diamonds are assessed differently.
When choosing: consider the appearance you enjoy and how it complements your chosen metal.
The characteristics within
Clarity describes internal inclusions and surface blemishes, assessed under 10× magnification. Many are difficult to see without magnification.
Their size, position and nature matter. “Eye-clean” describes an appearance under particular viewing conditions, rather than a formal grade.
When choosing: consider the individual stone, rather than relying on its clarity grade alone.
Weight, rather than size
Carat measures weight. Two diamonds of the same weight can appear different in size because of their shape and proportions.
Some carry more weight in their depth, while others have a larger outline when viewed from above.
When choosing: compare millimetre measurements alongside carat weight.
Finding your shape
Soft curves, elongated silhouettes or clean geometric lines.
Each shape gives your jewellery a different character.
A timeless circular outline with lively sparkle.
Soft curves and an elongated silhouette.
Step-cut facets with broad flashes of light.
Square or rectangular with rounded corners.
A teardrop outline with a pointed tip.
Trimmed corners and brilliant-style facets.
A slender silhouette with pointed ends.
A square outline with defined corners.
A square step cut with geometric depth.
Natural & laboratory-grown diamonds
Both are diamonds, with essentially the same chemical composition, crystal structure and optical properties. Their origin is the main distinction.
Natural diamonds
Formed within the earth over immense periods of time. Their geological history, individuality and rarity can be a meaningful part of their appeal.
Laboratory-grown diamonds
Created in a controlled environment. Specialist testing can identify their origin. They are distinct from simulants such as cubic zirconia and moissanite.
We can explore both options with you, considering what matters most and how each stone works within your design and budget.
Working within your budget
There is no single combination of diamond grades that is right for everyone. You may prioritise sparkle, a particular shape, natural origin or the proportions of the finished piece.
Your overall budget also allows for the metal, setting and craftsmanship. An approximate budget is enough to begin. We can compare options and explain where different choices make a visible or meaningful difference.
Choosing with confidence
An independent laboratory report records a diamond’s assessed characteristics. Depending on the report, it may include weight, measurements, quality assessments and information about origin or treatments.
We can help you understand the information available for your options. Images, videos and assessment of the individual diamond add context about its appearance.
Your questions, answered
Is a bigger diamond always better?
The right size depends on your preferences and design. A diamond’s beauty also comes from its proportions and the way it handles light.
Do I need the highest colour and clarity grades?
The highest grades may carry a premium for differences that are subtle when worn. We can help you decide which characteristics matter most to you.
What does “eye-clean” mean?
No inclusions are readily visible to the unaided eye under the viewing conditions used. A clarity grade alone does not guarantee this appearance.
Are laboratory-grown diamonds real diamonds?
Yes. They have essentially the same composition and properties as natural diamonds. Specialist testing can identify their origin.
What is the difference between a report and a valuation?
A report describes a stone’s characteristics. A valuation assesses monetary value for a stated purpose, such as insurance replacement, and may consider the complete piece.
How does the setting influence my choice?
The setting affects appearance, security and comfort. For rings, we also consider setting height, protection for points and corners, and how a wedding band could sit alongside it.
Do I need to choose a diamond before contacting Ativa?
No. Begin with an idea, favourite shape, inspiration images or approximate budget. We can develop the design and explore diamonds together.
Create something meaningful
Share what you have in mind. Working directly with Logan, explore the possibilities — from choosing your diamond to refining your custom piece.
ENQUIRE ABOUT A CUSTOM PIECE