Education

Diamond Education

THE FOUR C'S

Color

Diamond color actually means lack of color. The diamond color evaluation of most gem-quality diamonds is based on the absence of color. A chemically pure and structurally perfect diamond has no hue, like a drop of pure water, and consequently, a higher value. GIA's D-to-Z diamond color-grading system measures the degree of colorlessness by comparing a stone under controlled lighting and precise viewing conditions to masterstones of established color value.

GIA's diamond D-to-Z color-grading scale is the industry's most widely accepted grading system. The scale begins with the letter D, representing colorless, and continues, with increasing presence of color, to the letter Z. Many of these color distinctions are so subtle that they are invisible to the untrained eye; however, these distinctions make a very big difference in diamond quality and price.

Clarity

Natural diamonds are the result of carbon exposed to tremendous heat and pressure deep in the earth. This process can result in a variety of internal characteristics called 'inclusions' and external characteristics called 'blemishes.' Diamond clarity refers to the absence of inclusions and blemishes.

Cut

A diamond's cut unleashes its light. Diamonds are renowned for their ability to transmit light and sparkle so intensely. We often think of a diamond's cut as shape (round, emerald, pear), but a diamond's cut grade is really about how well a diamond's facets interact with light. Precise artistry and workmanship are required to fashion a stone so its proportions, symmetry, and polish deliver the magnificent return of light only possible in a diamond.

Carat Weight

Diamond carat weight is the measurement of how much a diamond weighs. A metric "carat" is defined as 200 milligrams. Each carat can be subdivided into 100 'points.' This allows very precise measurements to the hundredth decimal place. A jeweler may describe the weight of a diamond below one carat by its 'points' alone. For instance, the jeweler may refer to a diamond that weighs 0.25 carats as a 'twenty-five pointer.' Diamond weights greater than one carat are expressed in carats and decimals. A 1.08 carat stone would be described as 'one point zero eight carats.

METAL EDUCATION

Gold

An enduring element in a distinct yellow color.

Gold has an extraordinary heritage with unique qualities, and is resistant to rust, tarnish, and corrosion. Although it is very strong, it's also the most malleable of all precious metals. Pure gold is too soft for everyday wear, so it is alloyed with a mixture of metals like silver, copper, nickel, and zinc to give it strength and durability.

Silver

Relatively soft, very malleable.

Pure silver is commonly combined with other metals to produce a more durable product. The most popular of these alloys is sterling silver, which consists of 92.5 % silver and 7.5 % copper. Although any metal can make up the 7.5 % non-silver portion of sterling, centuries of experimentation have shown copper to be its best companion, improving the metal's hardness and durability without affecting its beautiful color.

Tungsten

Tarnish-resistant with a substantial feel in weight.

Tungsten is nearly impossible to scratch or wear down, so even the most delicate details are well-defined and polished after years of wear. Four times harder than titanium, tungsten retains its polish longer than almost any other metal. A practical and beautiful choice for gardeners, or anyone who is active with their hands.

Cobalt

Bright white metal that is highly scratch resistant.

Made from a highly durable alloy, cobalt is four times harder than platinum while at the same time, less dense. Because of its natural hardness, cobalt jewelry is extremely scratch, chip and corrosion-resistant. Its lower density and natural malleability allow for strong, dynamic designs with less weight. Cobalt is also hypoallergenic, making it an ideal choice for those with sensitive skin or an active lifestyle.

Platinum

Will last forever, making it the ultimate symbol for true, enduring, and everlasting love.

Platinum is durable. Its density makes it the most secure setting for your diamond or precious gemstone. Because platinum is a naturally white metal, re-plating is unnecessary; it will always hold its beauty.

Palladium

Superior ability to withstand corrosion and oxidation.

A naturally white metal, palladium is hypoallergenic, will not tarnish and remains white forever. palladium is 95% pure when used in jewelry, is extremely durable and does not require alloy metals and/or plating for protection, which ensures that it will remain white as long as you own your jewelry.

DIAMOND CUT EDUCATION

Round Cut

The most popular diamond shape, the Round Cut is generally superior to fancy shapes at the proper reflection of light, maximizing potential brightness.

Princess Cut

First created in 1980, this is the most popular fancy diamond shape, especially for engagement rings. Like the Round Cut, the Princess Cut is a good choice for its flexibility to work in almost any setting style.

Oval Cut

Possessing a similar fire and brilliance to the Round Cut, Oval Cut diamonds have the added advantage of an elongated shape, which can create the illusion of greater size.

Marquise Cut

Because the Marquise Cut is long and narrow, it can create the illusion of greater size. Carat for carat, the Marquise diamond has one of the largest surface areas of any diamond shape.

Pear Shaped

A combination of a Round and a Marquise diamond/Cut, with a tapered point on one end. A Pear shaped diamond should ideally possess excellent or very good symmetry, forming uniform, symmetrical curves.

Cushion Cut

Combines a Square Cut with rounded corners, much like a pillow. This classic cut has been around for almost 200 years. Refinements in cut have led to a recent resurgence in popularity.

Emerald Cut

For a different look, Emerald Cut diamonds produce a hall-of-mirrors effect, with the interplay of light and dark planes. Often, inclusions or body color are easier to see in an emerald cut.

Asscher Cut

Similar to the Emerald Cut, the Asscher Cut features a square shape with larger step facets, a higher crown, and a smaller table. This combination often produces more brilliance.

Radiant Cut

The first rectangular cut to have a brilliant-cut facet applied to both the crown and pavilion. The modified square looks beautiful with rounded or square cornered diamonds.

Heart Shaped

Heart Shaped cuts are an unmistakable symbol of love. Heart shaped diamonds are best in sizes larger than .50 carats to fully capture their beauty and brilliance.

RING SIZING

As our engagement rings and wedding bands are made to order, choosing the correct ring size is essential to ensure the optimal integrity of your ring for decades to come. Please note, certain metals and styles, like eternity bands, cannot be resized once made.

Gage Diamonds offers excellent tools and tips to help you measure the correct size for you or your significant other.

Measure in Store

The best way to determine your ring size is by visiting the Gage Diamonds showroom in Chicago, where one of our knowledgeable associates can properly measure your ring size. To make an appointment at our showroom, please contact our team at engage@gagediamonds.com.

If you're unable to make the trip to our Chicago showroom, there are still several options to measure your ring size at home.

Printable Ring Sizer

Use our printable ring sizer to measure your finger or use a ring that already fits the correct finger and reference our conversion chart. Download the ring sizer document.

Request a Free Ring Sizer

If you are unable to print our ring sizer, you can request a plastic ring sizer by mail. Please contact our team at engage@gagediamonds.com with your preferred mailing address.

Ring Sizing Tips

If you’re purchasing a ring with a wide band (greater than 2 mm), we recommend sizing up a half size Make sure the size you choose also fits over your knuckle. If you have thin fingers but larger knuckles, you may need to size up a half size.

Your finger size fluctuates throughout the day. If you’re cold, your finger will be smaller. and if you’re warm, your fingers will be bigger. We recommend measuring your finger in the evening when your body is warmest

Ring Sizing FAQ's

How Should a Ring Fit?

An engagement ring should be easier to put on than it is to take it off. It should fit snug when on the finger, without any discomfort. If you find yourself between two sizes, choose the larger size. It's much easier to resize a ring to make it smaller than larger.

Can I Resize My Ring?

Rings can only be resized up to 1.5 full ring sizes from the original ring size (for example, from a size 6.5 to a size 8.0 or from a size 6.5 to a size 5.0). Any resizing greater than 1.5 full ring sizes is not guaranteed and will incur a fee depending on the ring style and metal.

How Does Ring Resizing Work?

To make a ring smaller, a small piece of metal will be removed from the bottom of the ring's band, then soldered back together seamlessly. To make a ring larger, a small piece of metal will be added to the bottom of the band.

How Much Does It Cost to Resize a Ring?

Gage Diamonds offers a complimentary six-month care package, which includes free ring resizing. If you wish to resize your ring beyond six months of purchase, Gage Diamonds offers a 3-year aftercare plan for $250, which includes free resizing.