Two diamonds that look the same are not always the same. Each one may not be just physically but also characteristically different. Some of us may or may not know but even the chemical composition of every diamond is different. And then come the grading parameters.

These characteristics, also known as grading parameters set diamonds apart from one another. For a jeweller, these parameters also help them compare diamonds to one another.

Though information on grading parameters is extensive, here are some necessary points that can help.

What are the basic grading parameters?

As discussed earlier, a diamond’s parameters are essentially its characteristics. Most of a diamond’s characteristics are mostly natural, except for the diamond cut, which is under human control.

Apart from this one attribute, the other three of the 4Cs that are carat, colour and clarity are natural. There parameters matter since they help decide the worth of a diamond.

Diamond grading laboratories use grading scales for each of these parameters. Diamond colour is graded on a scale of D-Z, where D stands for colourless diamonds and Z for a light colour. Similarly, clarity is graded between FL (Flawless), which is the clearest and I (Included), which indicates considerable blemishes.

Various combinations of all four characteristics make each diamond unique. The rarest diamond would be the one with the highest clarity, no colour and the most perfect cut.

Do they affect diamond pricing?

We are aware that each parameter affects the appearance of the stone. As a result, they also influence pricing.

A diamond with high clarity but a poor cut will not only be sold cheap but will also look bad. Each parameter must be balanced in order to get the perfect diamond. But one may not always be able to afford it, which is why they can always adjust each parameter.

It is fine to compromise a little on each of the parameters and go for a less expensive diamond. However, one should never cut down so much that they end up with a bad diamond.

Coming down by just one or two clarity or colour grades does not change the look of the stone a lot. However, there will be a considerable change in pricing and you will be able to buy it without worrying much.

How many of them are there?

Other than the 4Cs of a diamond, there are other parameters such as fluorescence, light performance and the diamond’s depth. They too determine how a diamond will look and how expensive it will be.

According to international laboratories, there are 40 such diamond parameters. The laboratories issue a grading certificate on the basis of these attributes. Grading experts analyse each of these parameters and then certify the diamond.

Earlier, these certifications didn’t matter to people because only having a rare and precious stone such as a diamond was important to them. Initially, there were fewer grading parameters for diamonds.

At present, there are 123 quality parameters on which a diamantaire grades diamonds. However, only one brand in the whole world grades their solitaires on each one of them.