Everyone has heard of the diamond 4Cs. When purchasing a diamond for a loved one, it is important that you also understand and consider its symmetry before purchasing.
Here is some information about diamond symmetry and grading.
Diamond symmetry
Symmetry in regards to diamonds refers to the exactness of shape, overall outline, placement and alignment of individual facets. Symmetry refers to how precisely the various facets of a diamond align and intersect.
If you diamond has a symmetry grade of good to excellent, you don’t have to use symmetry as a primary factor in choosing a diamond, since each of these grades is possible in diamonds of exceptional appearance.
A diamond with poor symmetry may misdirect light that travels into the diamond, sending it off at slightly wrong angles, and thereby reducing the diamond’s brilliance.
Diamonds with poor symmetry have defects visible to the naked eye and should be avoided in all cases.
Symmetry grading by GIA
Excellent – Absence or minute flaws that are hard to find under 10X.
Very Good – Minor symmetry flaws that can be detected in the face up view under 10X.
Good – Noticeable features can be seen under 10X magnification. Visual appearance may be affected.
Fair – Obvious symmetry problems can be seen under 10X. Visual appearance is affected.
Poor – Prominent issues that can be seen even without magnification. Visual appearance is severely affected.
Gemological Institute of America
GIA, the creator of the Diamond 4Cs and the International Diamond Grading System™, explains that “until the middle of the twentieth century, there was no agreed-upon standard by which diamonds could be judged. GIA created the first, and now globally accepted standard for describing diamonds – the 4Cs. The 4Cs of Diamond Quality is the universal method for assessing the quality of any diamond, anywhere in the world. The creation of the Diamond 4Cs meant two very important things: diamond quality could be communicated in a universal language, and diamond customers could now know exactly what they were about to purchase”.
Stop by one of Albert’s four locations to find the perfect piece of jewelry that you are looking for!
Albert’s has been family owned and operated since 1927. No matter what part of the Tri-Cities you’re in we have a location to serve you. With two locations in Johnson City (Albert’s Loan Office and Uncle Sam’s Pawn Liquidation), Albert’s Loan Office in Bristol and our newest store, Albert’s Pawn in Kingsport – getting top dollar for your items for pawn loans and finding that item you’ve been looking for at an unbeatable price has never been easier.
