Diamond Guide
Discover everything you need to know about diamonds, from the 4Cs to choosing the perfect diamond for your special occasion.
Why Diamonds Are Special
Diamonds have captivated humanity for centuries with their unmatched brilliance, durability, and symbolic significance. Understanding what makes them unique helps in making an informed purchase.
Diamonds in Indian Culture
In India, diamonds (or "Heera") have been treasured since ancient times, mentioned in texts dating back thousands of years. They were believed to bring good fortune, protect against evil, and symbolize purity and invincibility.
Today, diamonds continue to hold special significance in Indian jewelry traditions, from elaborate bridal sets to everyday pieces that combine cultural heritage with contemporary design. At Swarn Shikhar, we honor this rich tradition while embracing modern diamond expertise.
Unmatched Brilliance
A diamond's unique optical properties create its legendary sparkle. When properly cut, it reflects and refracts light like no other gemstone.
Exceptional Durability
As the hardest natural substance on Earth (10 on the Mohs scale), diamonds are incredibly resistant to scratching and ideal for everyday wear.
Timeless Value
Diamonds have maintained their value throughout history. Their rarity, durability, and enduring appeal make them an investment that can be passed down through generations.
Symbolic Meaning
Diamonds symbolize enduring love, strength, and purity. In Indian tradition, they're also associated with Venus (Shukra) and believed to bring prosperity and harmony.
The 4Cs of Diamond Quality
Understanding the 4Cs—Cut, Color, Clarity, and Carat—is essential for making an informed diamond purchase. These universal standards help determine a diamond's quality and value.
Cut determines how well a diamond interacts with light, affecting its brilliance and sparkle. A well-cut diamond will reflect light internally and disperse it through the top of the stone.
- Determines how light reflects within and exits the diamond
- Affects brilliance (white light reflection), fire (colored light dispersion), and scintillation (sparkle)
- Graded on a scale from Excellent to Poor
- A well-cut diamond can appear larger and more brilliant than a poorly cut diamond of the same carat weight
Diamond color is graded on a scale from D (colorless) to Z (light yellow or brown). Colorless diamonds are the most valuable, as they allow more light to pass through.
- Graded on a scale from D (colorless) to Z (light yellow or brown)
- D, E, and F diamonds are considered colorless
- G, H, I, and J are near-colorless and offer excellent value
- Color differences are subtle and often not visible to the untrained eye
Clarity measures the absence of inclusions and blemishes. Diamonds with fewer imperfections are rarer and more valuable. The clarity scale ranges from Flawless (FL) to Included (I).
- Graded on a scale from Flawless (FL) to Included (I3)
- Most inclusions are microscopic and don't affect a diamond's beauty
- VS1 and VS2 (Very Slightly Included) diamonds offer excellent value
- The position of inclusions can affect a diamond's brilliance and value
Carat refers to the weight of a diamond, not its size. One carat equals 200 milligrams. The value of a diamond increases exponentially with carat weight, as larger diamonds are rarer.
- Larger diamonds are rarer and therefore more valuable per carat
- Two diamonds of equal carat weight can have different values based on the other 3Cs
- Diamond prices increase exponentially with carat weight
- Consider a diamond just under key carat weights (e.g., 0.9ct instead of 1ct) for better value
Finding Your Perfect Balance
At Swarn Shikhar Jewellers, we understand that each customer has unique preferences and priorities. While all 4Cs are important, you may choose to prioritize one factor over another based on your personal taste and budget.
For Maximum Brilliance
If you want the most sparkle, prioritize Cut above all else. An Excellent or Very Good cut can make a diamond with lower color or clarity appear more brilliant.
Our recommendation: Excellent Cut, G-H Color, VS2-SI1 Clarity
For Maximum Size
If you want the largest diamond for your budget, consider going lower on color and clarity (while ensuring they remain eye-clean) and focus on carat weight.
Our recommendation: Very Good Cut, I-J Color, SI1-SI2 Clarity
Our diamond experts are always available to help you navigate these choices and find the perfect diamond that matches your preferences and budget.
Diamond Shapes Guide
The shape of a diamond is one of its most distinctive features. Each shape has unique characteristics that affect its appearance, brilliance, and suitability for different settings and styles.
Round Brilliant
The most popular and classic diamond shape, designed to maximize brilliance and fire.
Characteristics:
- 58 facets for maximum light reflection
- Versatile and suits any setting style
- Most researched and optically brilliant shape
- Approximately 20% more expensive than fancy shapes
Ideal For:
Those who value maximum sparkle and timeless elegance. Perfect for traditional engagement rings.
Princess Cut
A contemporary square shape with pointed corners, combining the brilliance of round diamonds with a modern geometric form.
Characteristics:
- Typically 76 facets for excellent sparkle
- Square or rectangular shape with pointed corners
- Second most popular shape for engagement rings
- Requires protective settings for corners
Ideal For:
Modern couples seeking a contemporary look with excellent brilliance. Great for solitaire or channel settings.
Cushion Cut
A square or rectangular shape with rounded corners, combining vintage appeal with modern brilliance.
Characteristics:
- Pillow-like appearance with rounded corners
- Larger facets enhance brilliance and clarity
- Excellent light dispersion (fire)
- Popular in vintage-inspired designs
Ideal For:
Those who appreciate vintage aesthetics with modern sparkle. Especially popular in halo settings.
Oval Cut
An elongated round brilliant cut that can create the illusion of greater size and slender fingers.
Characteristics:
- Elongated shape with brilliant faceting
- Can appear larger than round diamonds of the same carat
- Can make fingers appear longer and slimmer
- May display a 'bow-tie' effect in some stones
Ideal For:
Those wanting to maximize perceived size and elongate the appearance of the hand. Excellent for vintage or modern settings.
Emerald Cut
A rectangular shape with stepped facets and cropped corners, known for its elegant hall-of-mirrors effect.
Characteristics:
- Step-cut faceting creates a hall-of-mirrors effect
- Emphasizes clarity over brilliance
- Elegant, sophisticated appearance
- Requires higher clarity grades
Ideal For:
Those who prefer understated elegance over maximum sparkle. Popular for vintage-inspired and Art Deco designs.
Pear Cut
A teardrop shape combining elements of round and marquise cuts, offering unique character and brilliance.
Characteristics:
- Teardrop shape with one pointed end
- Can create slimming effect on fingers
- Unique, distinctive appearance
- Requires careful setting to protect the point
Ideal For:
Individuals seeking a distinctive, eye-catching shape. Can be worn with the point facing up or down.
Marquise Cut
An elongated shape with pointed ends, maximizing carat weight and creating a dramatic appearance.
Characteristics:
- Boat-shaped with pointed ends
- Maximizes carat weight appearance
- Creates an elongating effect on the finger
- Requires protective settings for points
Ideal For:
Those wanting to maximize the perceived size of their diamond and create a dramatic, distinctive look.
Heart Cut
A romantic and symbolic shape requiring excellent craftsmanship to achieve proper symmetry and brilliance.
Characteristics:
- Distinctive heart shape with cleft at top
- Requires skilled cutting for proper symmetry
- Symbolic of love and romance
- Best in larger carat weights (>0.5ct)
Ideal For:
Romantic individuals seeking a literal symbol of love. Popular for anniversary gifts and engagement rings with sentimental significance.
Choosing the Right Shape for You
When selecting a diamond shape, consider these factors:
Personal Style
Choose a shape that resonates with your personal aesthetic. Classic individuals often prefer round or cushion cuts, while modern tastes might lean toward princess or radiant cuts.
Hand Shape
Certain shapes complement different finger types. Elongated shapes like oval, marquise, or emerald can make shorter fingers appear longer, while round and princess cuts suit any hand.
Lifestyle
If you lead an active lifestyle, consider shapes without pointed corners (like round, oval, or cushion) which are less likely to snag or chip during daily activities.
At Swarn Shikhar Jewellers, we offer all these diamond shapes and can help you find the perfect match for your style, preferences, and budget.
Diamond Settings Guide
The setting of your diamond jewelry not only affects its appearance but also its durability, maintenance requirements, and how the diamond interacts with light.
Prong Setting
The most common setting, featuring metal prongs that hold the diamond above the band, maximizing light exposure.
Best For:
- Maximizing diamond brilliance
- Showcasing solitaire diamonds
- Classic, timeless designs
Halo Setting
A center stone surrounded by a circle of smaller pavé diamonds, creating the illusion of a larger center stone.
Best For:
- Making the center diamond appear larger
- Maximizing sparkle and brilliance
- Vintage-inspired designs
Pavé Setting
Small diamonds set closely together with minimal metal visible, creating a continuous sparkle effect.
Best For:
- Adding sparkle to the band
- Complementing a center stone
- Creating a continuous diamond surface
Channel Setting
Diamonds set in a row between two parallel metal channels, creating a smooth, flush surface.
Best For:
- Active lifestyles
- Wedding bands
- Modern, sleek designs
Bezel Setting
A metal rim that completely surrounds the diamond, holding it securely in place.
Best For:
- Maximum security and protection
- Active lifestyles
- Modern, minimalist designs
Tension Setting
The diamond is held in place by pressure from the metal band, creating the illusion that the stone is floating.
Best For:
- Contemporary, artistic designs
- Showcasing the diamond's full profile
- Making a bold statement
Three-Stone Setting
Features a center stone flanked by two side stones, often symbolizing past, present, and future.
Best For:
- Symbolic meaning in relationships
- Maximizing overall sparkle
- Creating a substantial look
Cathedral Setting
The diamond is elevated above the band with arches resembling the architecture of a cathedral.
Best For:
- Creating a dramatic, elevated look
- Traditional, elegant designs
- Making the center stone appear larger
Flush Setting
The diamond is set into the band so that it sits flush with the metal surface, also called a gypsy setting.
Best For:
- Very active lifestyles
- Men's rings
- Minimalist, modern designs
Choosing the Right Setting
Consider Your Lifestyle
If you lead an active lifestyle or work with your hands, consider secure settings like bezel, channel, or flush settings that protect the diamond from impacts and snags.
For occasional wear or office environments, you might prefer settings that maximize brilliance, such as prong or tension settings.
Balance Aesthetics and Practicality
While prong settings showcase diamonds beautifully, they require more maintenance and can catch on clothing. Bezel settings are secure but may reduce a diamond's brilliance.
At Swarn Shikhar Jewellers, we can help you find the perfect balance between your aesthetic preferences and practical needs.
Indian Traditional Settings
In addition to contemporary settings, we offer traditional Indian settings like Kundan, Jadau, and Polki that showcase diamonds in culturally significant designs. These settings often feature diamonds set in pure gold with intricate detailing and sometimes combined with colorful enamel work.
These traditional settings are perfect for bridal jewelry, special occasions, and those who wish to honor India's rich jewelry heritage while enjoying the brilliance of diamonds.
Diamond Certification & Care
Understanding diamond certification and proper care ensures your investment maintains its value and beauty for generations.
Diamond Certification
A diamond certificate (or grading report) is a document issued by an independent gemological laboratory that verifies a diamond's authenticity and grades its quality based on the 4Cs.
GIA (Gemological Institute of America)
The most respected and recognized diamond grading laboratory worldwide. GIA developed the 4Cs grading system and provides consistent, unbiased evaluations.
IGI (International Gemological Institute)
One of the largest independent gem certification institutes, popular in India and worldwide. Known for faster turnaround times than GIA.
HRD Antwerp
Europe's leading authority in diamond certification, particularly respected in European markets. Provides detailed and reliable grading reports.
BIS Hallmark (Bureau of Indian Standards)
India's official quality certification for precious metals and jewelry. While primarily for gold, BIS certification ensures the quality of the metal in diamond jewelry.
Why Certification Matters
Verification of Authenticity: Confirms your diamond is natural and not synthetic or a simulant.
Objective Quality Assessment: Provides an unbiased evaluation of your diamond's quality.
Insurance Valuation: Necessary for proper insurance coverage of your diamond jewelry.
Resale Value: Certified diamonds typically have higher resale value and marketability.
Peace of Mind: Ensures you're getting exactly what you're paying for.
Identification: Provides unique identifying characteristics of your specific diamond.
At Swarn Shikhar Jewellers, we provide internationally recognized certificates for all our diamonds above 0.30 carats, ensuring complete transparency and confidence in your purchase.
Diamond Care Guide
While diamonds are the hardest natural substance, they still require proper care to maintain their brilliance and prevent damage to settings.
Do's for Diamond Care
Clean your diamonds regularly with mild soap, warm water, and a soft toothbrush.
Store diamond jewelry separately to prevent scratching other pieces.
Have professional cleanings and inspections at least once a year.
Remove diamond jewelry before swimming, bathing, or applying lotions and perfumes.
Check prongs and settings regularly for signs of wear or looseness.
Insure valuable diamond pieces against loss, theft, or damage.
Don'ts for Diamond Care
Avoid touching diamonds with oily or greasy hands, as they attract dirt and diminish sparkle.
Never use harsh chemicals like bleach or abrasive cleaners on diamond jewelry.
Don't wear diamond jewelry during heavy housework, gardening, or sports activities.
Avoid exposing diamonds to extreme temperature changes, which can weaken settings.
Don't stack rings with diamonds against other hard gemstones that could cause damage.
Never use ultrasonic cleaners at home without professional guidance, as they can loosen settings.
Special Care for Indian Climate
Monsoon Season Care
During India's humid monsoon season, moisture can affect diamond settings, particularly in gold and silver. Store your diamond jewelry with silica gel packets and clean more frequently to prevent tarnishing of the metal components.
Festival and Wedding Season
When wearing diamond jewelry with traditional Indian attire during festivals and weddings, be mindful of contact with heavy embroidery, sequins, or other jewelry pieces that might catch on settings or scratch the metal.
At Swarn Shikhar Jewellers, we offer complimentary cleaning and inspection services for all diamond jewelry purchased from us. We recommend bringing your pieces in before major occasions and at least once a year for routine maintenance.
Diamond Buying Guide
Ready to purchase a diamond? Here are our expert tips to help you make the perfect choice.
Tips for Buying Diamonds in India
Set Your Budget
Determine your budget before shopping. In India, diamond prices can vary significantly based on quality, certification, and retailer. At Swarn Shikhar, we offer options for every budget without compromising on quality.
Prioritize the 4Cs
Decide which of the 4Cs matters most to you. For maximum brilliance, prioritize cut. For size, focus on carat weight. For Indian bridal jewelry, many customers prefer higher color grades to complement traditional gold settings.
Verify Certification
Always insist on internationally recognized certification (GIA or IGI) for diamonds above 0.30 carats. Be wary of retailers who cannot provide proper certification or offer significant discounts without explanation.
Consider the Setting
In India, diamonds are often set in 18K or 22K gold. Consider how the metal color will complement the diamond's color grade. Yellow gold can make slightly yellow diamonds appear whiter, while white gold or platinum settings demand higher color grades.
Know Your Ring Size
For rings, accurate sizing is crucial for comfort and security. Use our Ring Size Guide to determine your correct size before purchasing.
The Swarn Shikhar Advantage
Quality Assurance
Every diamond undergoes rigorous quality checks before reaching our showroom.
Expert Guidance
Our gemologists provide personalized advice based on your preferences and budget.
Lifetime Support
Enjoy complimentary cleaning, inspection, and maintenance services for all diamond purchases.
Ready to Find Your Perfect Diamond?
Visit our store to explore our exquisite diamond collection or schedule a consultation with our diamond experts.
