CUT:The quality of the cut refers to the measurements of the diamond’s proportions, the symmetry of the facets and the quality of the polish. Cut or make is the most critical factor in the overall beauty of a diamond. For diamonds of different proportions, the light behaves differently as it enters and exits the stone. The combination of proportions can have a dramatic effect on a diamond’s face-up appearance, regardless of whether a stone is claw or bezel set. A stone of high colour and clarity may still appear dark or lifeless if the quality of cut is poor, affecting its beauty and value   COLOUR: The international colour grading system uses the letters, D to Z, to denote a colour, where D is colourless and the depth of colour increases down the scale to Z. Colour grade is assigned by comparison to a master set of colour grading stones that each act as the borderline between two colour grades. D to Z grades are a range of tones of colour where one merges into the next. There may be very little distinguishable difference between two diamonds that are close to each other on the scale, such as a low F colour and a high G colour.   CLARITY: Clarity grading uses a series of abbreviations to denote the size, number, location, type and intensity of inclusions as well as external blemishes. The type and arrangement of inclusions allows the stone to be identified. As a diamond forms within the earth and travels to the surface, the extreme conditions make it rare that it will be perfect in every aspect. Diamonds with fewer inclusions are rarer and, therefore, more valuable. Minor inclusions affect the price of the diamond even though they may not affect its overall beauty. Very large inclusions that are more visible can obstruct the light paths in the diamond, resulting in reduced transparency.   CARAT WEIGHT: The term carat dates back to when gemstones were weighed using the carob bean as a counter balance. Unlike colour, clarity and cut, which are the result of visual assessment, carat weight is conclusively determined by weighing the stone on a diamond balance or scale. Carat weight can be expressed as points, where 1 carat (ct) = 100 points = 0.200 gram. Larger carat weight does not always equate to greater diamond value. The value of a diamond is determined by its rarity and the combination of all four C’s: carat weight, colour, clarity and cut. Two stones of equal carat weight can have vastly different prices if their colour, clarity or quality of cut differs.     Ceylon or as we call it today Sri Lanka, along with Madagascar produce some of the highest quality Sapphires in the world. The blue colour symbolises the wearers eternal youth, faithfulness, and devoted love. These sapphires can vary from light blue to an intense rich hue. It is uniformity and purity of colour that are the most important consideration when choosing your sapphire.     Ruby is the gem of love. A variety of mining areas produce a great diversity of red hues. The Mogok Valley in Burma is famous for its “Pigeon’s Blood Ruby” of pink red colour. Thailand and Cambodia produce a strong dark red and the African mines are characterised by a beautiful bright red. Ruby intensifies emotions of love, passion, courage and confidence. The richness of colour, brilliance of the reflected light and the clarity determine the quality.       Emeralds are said to be one of the earliest recognised gemstones known to man. Columbia is often referred to as the source of the finest emeralds which are very highly regarded. Emerald is the colour of life and spring time and for centuries has also been the colour of beauty and love. Columbian emeralds are of a rare quality. It is this rarity that makes them a unique and exceptional gemstone.       Taken from the Latin word “Aqua Marina” the light blue Aquamarine creates feelings of sympathy, trust, harmony and friendship. Its divine eternal colour proves it to be one of the most popular and best known gemstones. Its colour can range from almost colourless pale blue to blue green or teal.       South Sea pearls are found between the northern coast of Australia and the southern coast of China. They typically measure between 10mm to 20mm in diameter making them the largest cultured pearls in the world. The pearl is the only gem that can be produced from nature perfect and complete and is considered to offer the power of love, money, protection and luck. Opulent and elegant, South Sea Pearls can be classified as “the most beautiful pearls in the world”.