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GIA 4Cs Diamond Blog

GIA 4Cs Diamond Blog

"Maze" leaf earrings, set in sterling silver and Mother of Pearl.
GIA Museum features designer Kara Ross in “Aluminati: Students to Stars”

An exciting new exhibit series is making its way through GIA Headquarters in Carlsbad, California. “Aluminati: Students to Stars” highlights the talents of GIA alumni who have made waves in the gem and jewelry industry. The first exhibit in the series, featuring designer Kara Ross, debuted earlier this month and will run through November. (more…)

Diamond Green-Yellow_404
Caring Tips and Fun Facts for April’s Birthstone: Diamond

April babies are lucky enough to have the most celebrated gemstone on Earth for a birthstone. So brilliant they were once thought to be fallen stars, diamonds are considered the hardest natural substance. (more…)

Diamond Carat: A Measurement of Diamond Weight

When buying a diamond, it is important to understand what diamond carat weight is and how the weight of a diamond is measured. 

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Diamond Cut: Crafting a Diamond’s Finish

A diamond’s cut and its shape are often confused, but we’re here to help! A diamond’s shape refers to its outline when viewed face up. A diamond’s cut refers to its facet arrangement. (more…)

Diamond Clarity: The absence of inclusions and blemishes

No diamonds are entirely without inclusions or blemishes, and these characteristics help gemologists accurately determine natural diamond clarity. (more…)

Diamond Color: The Absence of Color

Last week, we gave a broad overview of the 4Cs. Today, we discuss how to evaluate diamond color. Did you know most diamonds are not truly colorless and contain subtle hints of yellow or brown? (more…)

GIA Diamond Grading Scales: The Universal Measure of Quality

The prospect of purchasing a diamond may seem daunting, but through GIA, an unbiased authority on diamonds, you have several handy resources to help you select the highest quality diamond. First up, an overview of the 4Cs: Color, Clarity, Cut, and Carat Weight. (more…)

irish clauddagh ring
Wedding Jewelry Traditions Across the Globe

From ancient times to today, cultures around the world have celebrated wedding unions with wedding jewelry traditions. These customs offer a unique option for couples looking to infuse their wedding with beauty and personal meaning. (more…)

Interactive Diamond Tool Now Available for Android

Owners of Android phones and tablets like the Kindle Fire and Samsung Galaxy can now benefit from GIA’s (Gemological Institute of America) free interactive diamond app for consumers and retailers, available in both English and Simplified Chinese. The app engages consumers with interactive features, video content and information on the GIA-created 4Cs (Color, Clarity, Cut and Carat Weight) of diamond quality. (more…)

Aquamarines from Afghanistan
Aquamarine: A Member of the Mineral Species Beryl

As its namesake suggests, the cool blue hues of March’s captivating gemstone are reminiscent of a tranquil sea. Aquamarine crystals can grow in large sizes with excellent clarity. (more…)

Inaugural Gemstones

When the 57th President of the U.S. was sworn in on January 21st, many looked to First Lady Michelle Obama to set the stage for American fashion trends in 2013. The First Lady did not disappoint when she appeared at the inaugural ball in geode shaped diamond earrings and bangles by American designer Kimberly MacDonald. (more…)

elizabeth taylor crown
Oscar History: A Look at Noteworthy Jewelry

Some of the brightest stars in Hollywood will step onto the red carpet donning their most showstopping jewelry for the 85th Academy Awards. From Natalie Wood to Natalie Portman, movie stars have captivated audiences with their bling during awards season for decades. As we anticipate this Sunday’s glamour, join us for a  look back at noteworthy jewelry pieces in Oscar history: (more…)