» Carat
One of the four factors that determine the value of a diamond is the measurement of a diamond's weight. A carat is equal to 200 milligrams and there are 142 carats to an ounce. Carats are further divided into points. There are 100 points in a carat. A half-carat diamond may be referred to as a 50-point stone.

» Color
Diamonds come from the earth in every color of the spectrum. The most popular diamond is colorless. Stones are graded by color and given designations dependent on how far they deviate from the purest white. Colorless stones are graded D, and continues down through the alphabet, with each letter designating a more yellow tint.

» Clarity
A diamond's clarity is affected by any external irregularities and internal imperfections created by nature when the diamond was formed. Inclusions are imperfections such as spots, bubbles or lines that can interfere with the passage of light through the stone, diminishing the sparkle and value of the diamond's. Clarity is graded on a scale ranging from flawless to imperfect.

» Cut
Each diamond is cut according to an exact mathematical formula. The most common cut, the round brilliant, has 58 facets, or small, flat, polished planes designed to yield the maximum amount of light to be reflected back to the viewer, known as brilliance. The widest circumference of a diamond is known as the girdle. Cut is also used to describe the shape a diamond, such as emerald, marquise, pear, oval and square.

» Baguette
A rectangular-shaped small diamond that is often used to enhance the setting of a larger stone.

» Bezel setting
A diamond is completely surrounded by a precious metal border in this setting technique that resembles a picture frame.

» Channel setting
Popular for mounting rows of small, uniformly-sized stones, this setting technique uses two strips of metal to hold the stones at the sides.

» Fancy cut
A diamond cut in any shape other than round.

» Pave setting
A setting technique for small diamonds in which the stones are set so closely together that no metal shows.

» Solitaire
The mounting of a single gemstone.

» Tiffany setting
A four or six prong setting using long, slender prongs to hold the stone.

The following tips will help you care for your diamond:

Avoid wearing your diamonds when doing rough work.

Chlorine bleach or other chemicals can pit or discolor the mounting.

Clean your diamonds regularly using Ellanar jewelry cleaner from Gem of an Idea or a mix of ammonia and water, or a mild detergent. Dip the jewelry into the solution and use a soft brush to dislodge dust or dirt from under the setting.

Keep your diamond jewelry in a fabric-lined case or in a box with compartments. Diamonds can scratch other jewelry and each other, so store separately.

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