top of page

The Ultimate Guide to Understanding Diamonds

Updated: Dec 18, 2023

Welcome to "The Ultimate Guide to Diamonds" brought to you by The Hamilton Gold Company. Diamonds, often hailed as "a girl's best friend," hold a timeless allure that goes beyond their captivating sparkle. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the world of diamonds, exploring their mesmerising qualities, the intricate process of evaluation based on the 4Cs, and how to make an informed choice when selecting these precious gems. Whether you're planning a proposal, searching for a meaningful gift, or simply intrigued by the allure of diamonds, this guide is your trusted companion on a journey through their brilliance, symbolism, and significance.



Pile of diamonds

 

The 4 Cs

The 4Cs – Cut, Color, Clarity, and Carat Weight – form the cornerstone of diamond assessment, shaping their visual appeal, value, and overall character.


Cut

The cut of a diamond determines its captivating sparkle. Explore classic round, elegant princess, or vintage-inspired emerald cuts. Each cut interacts with light in its unique way, showcasing the diamond’s brilliance and fire. A well-cut diamond reflects your love’s radiance, ensuring a timeless and dazzling presence.


Different diamond cuts

Colour

Diamonds come in a spectrum of colors, from icy whites to enchanting yellows and pinks. The GIA color grading scale helps you choose your desired shade. Opt for a colorless diamond for a traditional look or embrace a fancy color diamond to express your individuality and creativity.


Diamond colour chart

Clarity

Clarity speaks to a diamond’s internal purity. Our selection ranges from Flawless to Included, allowing you to strike a balance between brilliance and budget. Embrace the unique birthmarks within the diamond, known as inclusions, as they make each stone a one-of-a-kind work of art.


Diamond clarity chart

Carat Weight

Carat weight measures a diamond’s size, not its quality. Select a carat weight that resonates with your sentiments and budget. A larger diamond makes a bold statement, while a smaller one exudes delicate charm. Whichever you choose, it signifies the depth of your love. Follow this link for how carat weight roughly corresponds to diamond sizes.


Our expert team at The Hamilton Gold Company is committed to guiding you through the enchanting world of diamonds. Whether you prefer a classic, colourless diamond or a fancy-coloured beauty, our extensive collection ensures that your engagement ring is a true reflection of your unique connection.

 

Certified Diamonds: A Testament of Quality and Ethical Sourcing

At The Hamilton Gold Company, we uphold the highest standards for diamond quality and ethical sourcing. Every diamond in our collection is certified by renowned gemological laboratories, ensuring you receive a genuine masterpiece of enduring beauty.


All of our diamonds are certified either by the GIA (Gemological Institute of America), AGS (American Gem Society), IGI (International Gemological Institute), and HRD (Hoge Raad voor Diamant). These certifications ensure transparency, giving you the confidence to choose a diamond that meets your desires.

 

Sustainable Sourcing: A Commitment to Ethical Practices

Beyond the assurance of certification, our diamonds are sourced sustainably and responsibly. We prioritise conflict-free origins and adhere to ethical mining practices, supporting communities and the environment. This commitment aligns with our values and guarantees that your engagement ring symbolises love not only for each other but also for the world we share.


When you choose a certified diamond from The Hamilton Gold Company, you're not only investing in a symbol of your love but also in the principles of quality, transparency, and sustainability. Each certified diamond comes with a detailed certificate, an everlasting testament to its authenticity, beauty, and ethical journey.

 

Exploring Diamond Alternatives: Lab Grown Diamonds, CZ, and Moissanite

While diamonds are timeless and exquisite, modern couples have a plethora of options when it comes to choosing the perfect gemstone for their engagement ring. Lab grown diamonds, Cubic Zirconia (CZ), and Moissanite are three popular alternatives to traditional mined diamonds, each offering unique qualities that cater to different preferences.


CZ vs Moissanite vs Diamonds

Lab Grown Diamonds: Ethical Elegance

Lab grown diamonds are a sustainable and ethical choice that mirror the brilliance and beauty of mined diamonds. They are created in controlled environments using advanced technology, ensuring that each stone is of the highest quality. With the same chemical composition and physical characteristics as natural diamonds, lab grown diamonds offer a stunning and responsible option for your engagement ring.


Cubic Zirconia (CZ): Affordable Brilliance

CZ is a synthetic gemstone known for its impressive brilliance and affordability. While it may not possess the same hardness as a diamond, CZ offers remarkable sparkle that can easily mimic the appearance of a genuine diamond. This option allows you to achieve a stunning look without compromising your budget.


Moissanite: Fire and Brilliance

Moissanite, a lab-grown gemstone, is cherished for its exceptional fire and brilliance. With a higher refractive index than diamonds, moissanite reflects light beautifully, creating mesmerizing flashes of color. Its ethical and sustainable production makes it an attractive choice for environmentally-conscious individuals seeking an eco-friendly alternative.


Choosing between these diamond alternatives ultimately depends on your personal style, values, and preferences. Whether you opt for the classic allure of lab grown or mined diamonds, the affordability of CZ, or the captivating charm of moissanite, The Hamilton Gold Company is here to guide you in making a choice that perfectly reflects your love story. Each gemstone tells a unique tale, and we're dedicated to helping you find the ideal chapter for your engagement ring.

 

Contact Us

Located in Surbiton and Kingston, Surrey, The Hamilton Gold Company offers a local and personalised experience for buying and selling diamonds and other precious gem stones. Our expert team is dedicated to providing guidance, customisation, and top prices, ensuring you find the perfect diamond.


For personalised assistance, inquiries, and orders, The Hamilton Gold Company is here to guide you every step of the way. Contact us so our expert team can help you embark on your diamond journey. Whether you're seeking advice on customisation, exploring options, or ready to select your dream ring, we are dedicated to ensuring your experience is seamless, enjoyable, and memorable.


Comments


bottom of page