Why Are Diamonds So Valuable?

Through the ages there has been one particular stone that is held in higher regard than any other stone on the planet. That stone is the diamond. So why, over the course of thousands upon thousands of years, is the diamond considered to be the most valuable stone?

There are many ideas that suggest why diamonds are so coveted. Depending on the individual, it could be that a diamond's beauty is so simple yet so complex. Everyone understands the simple idea that diamonds sparkle. However, understanding why diamonds sparkle is a much more complex endeavor. Beyond a diamond's beauty is the fact that diamonds are very rare, and near perfect diamonds are even rarer.

Diamonds have been traced as far back as three thousand years to India. Not only were diamonds beloved for their beauty in such jewelry as diamond fashion necklaces, but they were also coveted for their ability to fend off evil spirits. Into the Middle Ages, diamonds were valued for their medicinal value. A diamond held in one's hand combined with a prayer was thought to be able to aid in curing illnesses, which for the sick would understandably be of great value. While diamonds have always been decorative, it should be understood that great mystic powers associated with diamonds also increased the diamond's value.

In the last few hundred years, diamonds are most desired in jewelry. Diamond necklaces and diamond stud earrings rank very high in popularity, but perhaps the most popular use of diamonds are when they are set in diamond rings. Diamond engagement rings, specifically, has risen exponentially in the last hundred years or so.

The 4 C's In Diamond Jewelry

Today, a diamond's value is typically gauged by putting it to the test of the 4 C's. The 4 C's are:

Color
Clarity
Cut
Carat

These 4 C's are easy to remember, but what does it all mean? Typically, color is actually measured by its lack of color. The clearer a diamond, the more valuable. Flaws or foreign material caught in the diamond create a more cloudy color and result in less sparkle. The clearer the diamond, the shinier. Gemologists use a color scale to rank a diamond's color, and this will make the diamond more expensive or less expensive, depending what grade it is given.

Clarity refers to how easily a diamond allows light through. It also gauges reflectivity and refractivity. Clarity is usually determined by a diamond's flaws. The fewer flaws, the higher clarity. A diamond with a clarity grade of FL means the diamond is flawless and thus extremely valuable.

A diamond's cut is valued for different reasons. Many times, the value of a diamond's cut is a personal preference. However, a well cut diamond must be proportional as well as symmetrical, nicely polished, and in the proper shape. Some shapes of cuts are round brilliant, princess, emerald, and teardrop.

A diamond's carat refers to its weight. Understandably, the heavier a diamond, the more valuable it will be. However, the weight of the diamond is most valuable with respect to cut diamonds. A large, expertly cut diamond will be more valuable than a large uncut stone.

Whether you are in the market to buy or are one of the millions of diamond enthusiasts across nations, understanding why diamonds are valuable enhances your ability to enjoy the most coveted stones in the world.