The Insider Guide to Investing in Diamonds: Expert Tips to Acquire Exceptional Diamonds

To the untrained eye, a diamond may seem just like any other. However, crucial aspects such as budget allocation, diamond rarity, and optimising brilliance, spread, faceting, and depth often remain undisclosed when going through the journey of acquiring a diamond. 

 

At Layla Kaisi Collection, we transcend the ordinary. Unlike generic brands, we offer diamonds that surpass industry market standards. Our commitment to transparency and excellence ensures that every diamond we hand select for our clients is meticulously sourced and perfectly suited to your bespoke design. This is a criteria we call: The LKC Standard. 

 

So here are the diamond facts you need to know when purchasing diamonds that no standard jeweller will tell you:

 

Where to invest value

 

Diamond Carat: 

 

Firstly and most importantly, carat weight is not necessarily a direct reflection of the diamond's size. The carat system is a standardised unit of measurement used for weighing diamonds and other gemstones. It provides a consistent way to quantify a stone's weight, which is a significant factor in determining its value. However, it's crucial to understand that a higher carat weight does not always translate to a visually larger diamond.

 

Some brands may try to sell you a diamond based solely on its carat weight, such as a 3ct stone, claiming it's significantly larger than a 2ct diamond. However, this can be misleading. If the majority of the stone's weight is hidden in the depth—specifically in the girdle and pavilion—the diamond may not actually appear any larger than a 2ct diamond when set in jewellery. This practice essentially charges you more for visually less, as the extra weight doesn't contribute to the diamond's face-up appearance.

 

If your budget allows for a significant diamond, but you would like the diamond to appear larger on your finger, look for a diamond that is cut to maximise spread rather than depth - this face up appearance is key. 

 

Carat Selection Strategy: 

 

Maximising spread involves selecting a diamond with a larger surface area, making it appear more substantial without necessarily increasing the carat weight. However, it is crucial to ensure that this does not compromise the diamond's symmetry and cut quality. A well-proportioned diamond with excellent symmetry and a precise cut will reflect light beautifully, enhancing its brilliance, fire, and overall appearance.

 

It is also important to note that only do different standard cuts exhibit varying degrees of spread, but each cut can also be tailored—elongated or modified—to enhance the visual coverage on the finger. For instance, a pear cut typically offers the greatest spread relative to carat weight, while an emerald or cushion cut tends to be deeper, resulting in less surface area and, consequently, less coverage. However, a skilled jewellery designer with access to exceptional sources can procure an extra-elongated emerald cut of the same carat weight, allowing for a more prominent presence on the finger. This careful selection ensures that the diamond not only appears larger but also maintains its exquisite proportions and aesthetic harmony.

 

It is critical to ensure that the diamond's spread does not impact other critical attributes, such as brilliance and fire. This is where meticulous white-glove sourcing, like the process at Layla Kaisi Collection, becomes imperative. Our experts work to select diamonds that not only maximise visual impact but also uphold exceptional standards of cut, clarity, and symmetry. By prioritising these qualities, we ensure that each piece not only captivates with its size but also radiates with unparalleled brilliance, making your jewellery truly extraordinary and offering you the best value for your investment. 

 

 

  

Diamond Colour: 

 

The colour-grading scale developed by GIA (Gemological Institute of America) is widely recognised as the industry standard for diamonds. This scale starts with the letter D, representing the highest grade of colourlessness. It progresses through the alphabet to the letter Z, which signifies light yellow or brown hues. Each letter grade within the scale corresponds to a specific range of colour appearance. For those seeking a traditional white diamond, the colour grade closest to D within your budget is ideal.

 

At Layla Kaisi Collection, we ensure your entire budget is maximised by sourcing the finest quality diamonds. The finest white diamonds command a higher price tag for good reason, reflecting their exceptional quality and rarity. It's important to note that many of these colour distinctions are incredibly subtle, often invisible to the untrained eye. However, these slight differences significantly impact a diamond's quality and value. We at LKC are trained to discern these nuances, ensuring you receive a diamond of the highest calibre within your chosen parameters.

 

Colour Selection Strategy: 

 

When selecting your diamond, consider how the colour interacts with the setting. For instance, yellow gold can make a lower colour grade diamond appear whiter, while platinum or white gold settings may require a higher colour grade to maintain a crisp, white appearance. Our design team expertly pairs diamonds with settings to enhance their natural beauty and maximise their visual appeal.

 

Colour also plays a significant role in the value of a diamond. Diamonds graded D, E, and F are considered colourless and are the highest value due to their rarity. As you move down the scale to near-colourless grades (G, H, I, J), the value decreases, but these diamonds can still offer exceptional beauty, especially when set in the right metal. For example, a G or H colour diamond set in yellow gold can appear just as stunning as a higher-grade diamond, offering excellent value without compromising on appearance.

 

Best practices for selecting a diamond include balancing colour with other quality factors such as cut, clarity, and carat weight. A well-cut diamond with a slightly lower colour grade can often appear more brilliant and beautiful than a higher colour grade diamond with a poor cut. At Layla Kaisi Collection, we consider all the 4Cs—cut, clarity, carat, and colour—to ensure each piece of jewellery we create is a harmonious blend of exceptional quality and stunning beauty, tailored to your unique preferences and budget.

 

Fluorescence: 

 

We cannot speak of a diamonds colour without also mentioning the role of Fluorescence - another factor that can impact a diamond's colour and overall appearance. Fluorescence refers to the tendency of a diamond to emit a soft glow when exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light. This phenomenon occurs in about 30-35% of diamonds, most commonly as a blue hue, but it can also appear in shades of green, yellow, white, or red.

 

The impact of fluorescence is neither good nor bad, but entirely dependent on the other factors within the diamond. In some cases, fluorescence can enhance a diamond's appearance; for diamonds with lower colour grades (I-M), blue fluorescence can counteract yellowish tones, making the diamond appear whiter and more colourless in natural daylight. This can be particularly beneficial if you are looking for a diamond that appears higher in quality without the corresponding price increase.

 

However, in higher colour grade diamonds (D-F), strong fluorescence can sometimes have a detrimental effect, causing the diamond to appear blue or hazy under certain lighting conditions. This is why it is often recommended to avoid medium-strong fluorescence in high-colour diamonds to maintain their pristine clarity and brilliance. When considering fluorescence, it is essential to view the diamond under different lighting conditions, including UV light, to understand its full impact. At Layla Kaisi Collection, our experts will can guide you through this process, ensuring that you select a diamond that meets your aesthetic and quality expectations.

 

 

 

 

Diamond Cut: 

 

When it comes to diamonds, the cut is arguably the most critical factor influencing a diamond's overall beauty and value. Unlike shape, which refers to the diamond's outline, the cut refers to how well the diamond has been shaped and faceted. A well-executed cut can enhance a diamond's brilliance, fire, and scintillation, making it a vital consideration for anyone looking to invest in a stunning piece of jewellery.

 

Understanding Diamond Cut Quality: 

 

The quality of a diamond cut is evaluated based on several key factors, including:

1. Proportions: The angles and dimensions of the diamond's facets play a crucial role in how light interacts with the stone. Ideal proportions allow light to enter the diamond, reflect off the facets, and return to the observer's eye, creating that sought-after sparkle.
2. Symmetry: A diamond's symmetry refers to how evenly the facets are arranged. Well-symmetrical diamonds reflect light more effectively, enhancing their brilliance.
3. Polish: The quality of the diamond's surface finish is also essential. A well-polished diamond will have fewer surface blemishes, allowing for better light performance.

 

The Impact of Diamond Cut: 

 

The cut of a diamond directly affects its brilliance, which is the amount of light reflected back to the viewer. A diamond with an excellent cut will appear more luminous and vibrant, while a poorly cut diamond may look dull, regardless of its carat weight or clarity. At Layla Kaisi Collection, we prioritise diamonds with excellent cut grades, as these stones showcase optimal light performance. The GIA grading scale for cut ranges from Excellent to Poor, with the following classifications:

• Excellent: Reflects nearly all light that enters the diamond, creating exceptional brilliance.
• Very Good: Reflects most light, offering a beautiful sparkle but slightly less than an excellent cut.
• Good: Reflects a fair amount of light, but may not exhibit the same level of brilliance as higher grades.
• Fair: Reflects some light but may appear dull or lifeless.
• Poor: Reflects very little light and lacks brilliance.

 

Cut Selection Strategy: 

 

When selecting a diamond, consider the following tips to ensure you choose one that maximises beauty and value:

• Prioritise Cut Quality: Always prioritise cut quality over carat weight. A smaller diamond with an excellent cut can outshine a larger diamond with a poor cut.
• Evaluate Light Performance: If possible, view the diamond in various lighting conditions to assess its brilliance and sparkle. A well-cut diamond should dazzle in both natural and artificial light.
• Seek Expert Guidance: At Layla Kaisi Collection, our knowledgeable team is here to help you navigate the intricacies of diamond cuts. We can guide you in selecting a diamond that not only meets your aesthetic preferences but also exemplifies the highest standards of quality.

 

Diamond depth percentage: 

 

Along with all other symmetry and faceting, the depth of a diamond is a crucial factor in determining its overall appearance and light performance. This measurement, expressed as a percentage, is calculated by dividing the diamond's depth by its average diameter. At Layla Kaisi Collection, we recognise that the ideal depth percentage can vary depending on the diamond's shape and select according to the top ideal. 

 

For round brilliant cut diamonds, we aim for a depth percentage between 59% and 62.5%. This range is optimal for reflecting light back to the viewer's eye, creating the dazzling sparkle that round diamonds are renowned for. For fancy shapes, the ideal range can vary, but we typically look for percentages between 58% and 70%, depending on the specific cut. Each shape has its unique characteristics, and it is important to understand how to balance these to achieve the best visual impact.

 

A depth percentage outside the ideal range can result in a diamond that appears smaller than its carat weight suggests, or one that lacks optimal brilliance. A diamond that is too deep will have much of its weight hidden in the pavilion, making it look smaller from the top view. Conversely, a diamond that is too shallow may appear larger but will not reflect light as effectively, resulting in a duller window-like appearance.

 

Our commitment to perfection means we go beyond these general guidelines– We carefully select the optimal proportions and analyse how light behaves within each diamond, ensuring that the depth contributes to maximum brilliance and fire. We carefully consider the interplay between depth percentage and other factors like table size, crown angle, girdle thickness/type, and overall proportions to achieve the perfect balance. By meticulously considering these technical aspects, we ensure that each Layla Kaisi Collection diamond is cut to perfection, maximising its inherent beauty and offering you a truly exceptional piece of jewellery. 

 

 

  

 

Diamond Clarity:

 

Diamond clarity is a crucial factor in determining a diamond's beauty and value. Clarity refers to the presence of inclusions (internal flaws) and blemishes (surface imperfections) in a diamond. The number of inclusions or blemishes in your diamond will determine how flawless it is. Diamonds that are free from these blemishes are considered rare, and their rarity directly impacts their value. Our expertise lies in selecting diamonds that appear flawless to the naked eye, offering unparalleled brilliance and value.

 

We adhere to the GIA International Diamond Grading System™, which grades diamonds from Flawless (FL) to those with obvious inclusions (I1-I3):

• Flawless (FL): No inclusions or blemishes are visible to a skilled grader using 10× magnification.
• Internally Flawless (IF): No inclusions, only minor blemishes are visible to a skilled grader under 10× magnification.
• Very, Very Slightly Included (VVS1 and VVS2): Inclusions are challenging for a skilled grader to detect under 10× magnification.
• Very Slightly Included (VS1 and VS2): Inclusions are minor and can range from difficult to somewhat easy for a skilled grader to observe under 10× magnification.
• Slightly Included (SI1 and SI2): Inclusions are noticeable under 10× magnification.
• Included (I1, I2, and I3): Inclusions are clearly visible under 10× magnification and may impact the diamond's transparency and brilliance.

 

Clarity Selection Strategy:

 

At Layla Kaisi Collection, we primarily focus on the highest clarity grades to match the discerning tastes of our clientele. Our collection typically features diamonds in the IF, VVS, and VS ranges, known for their exceptional clarity and brilliance. However, we understand that sometimes budget considerations come into play. When this occurs, we employ a series of precise strategies to ensure that even diamonds with lower clarity grades meet our exacting standards. 

 

Firstly, it is important to select diamonds based on not only the clarity grade itself, but also the placement, type, and distribution of the inclusions. Each diamond we source goes through a rigorous analysis of the clarity plot to gain insight into these often overlooked characteristics.

 

By carefully studying the clarity plot of each diamond, we select pieces with inclusions that are discreetly located, often hidden in the girdle where they are least visible and do not affect the diamond's face-up appearance. Furthermore, inclusions positioned under the crown facets can be masked by light reflection, while those near the pavilion can be concealed by the setting itself. Additionally, we assess the symmetry of inclusions; evenly distributed inclusions tend to have a lesser impact on a diamond's overall appearance compared to those that are concentrated in one area.

 

By combining this strategic analysis, we ensure that every diamond we select not only meets our high standards for quality but also appears visually stunning and clean to the naked eye. This meticulous attention to detail allows us to offer diamonds that truly embody the brilliance and elegance expected from the Layla Kaisi Collection.  

 

 

 

What Actually Makes a Diamond Rare: LKC's Expert Insight

 

There are many myths about diamond rarity, the main one being that all diamonds are rare. This is not entirely true. However, while not all diamonds are, there are some that are significantly more rare than others. Here is exactly what makes a diamond truly rare.

 

Diamond quality:

 

While diamonds are not entirely a scarce source, high-quality diamonds are much harder to find. To find a diamond that is actually rare, you will have to search for diamonds that are high grade across the entirety of the 4Cs: carat weight, cut, colour, and clarity. High-quality diamonds suitable for jewellery are much less common than industrial-grade diamonds. The rarity of such diamonds stems from the stringent criteria required for high clarity, excellent colour, and superior cuts, which together enhance a diamond's overall brilliance and value. A common myth is that higher carat weight automatically means higher value, but in reality, a flawless, smaller diamond can be more valuable than a larger, imperfect one. This misunderstanding underscores the importance of the overall quality of the diamond, not just its size. 

 

Fancy colour:

 

Fancy-coloured diamonds indeed represent the pinnacle of diamond rarity, elevating the concept to an extreme level. These exceptional gems exhibit a wide array of unique hues, including blue, pink, green, red, purple, and orange, among others. Their distinctive colours result from specific trace elements or structural anomalies that occur during the diamond's formation deep within the Earth.

 

Natural fancy-coloured diamonds are incredibly rare, representing only about 2% of total rough diamond production. This scarcity makes them highly sought after and significantly more valuable than colourless diamonds. Among coloured diamonds, some hues are even rarer than others:

1. Red diamonds are considered the rarest, with only 20-30 natural red diamonds known to exist worldwide.
2. Blue, green, purple, and pure orange diamonds are also extremely rare.
3. Pink and yellow diamonds, while slightly more common, are still exceptionally scarce and highly valued.

 

 

 

 

The myth that all coloured diamonds are treated or enhanced is in fact false. Many natural fancy-coloured diamonds exist, formed through natural processes over millions of years. For instance:

• Yellow diamonds get their colour from nitrogen impurities.
• Blue diamonds contain traces of boron.
• Pink diamonds' colour is attributed to stress deformations during growth.

 

The natural occurrence of these colours contributes significantly to their scarcity and desirability. The Argyle Mine in Australia, now closed, was a significant source of pink, violet, and red diamonds, further emphasising their rarity. It's worth noting that the value of fancy-coloured diamonds generally increases with the intensity and purity of their colour. Large, vivid fancy-colour diamonds are especially scarce and valuable, as exemplified by the CTF Pink Star, a 59.60-carat Internally Flawless Fancy Vivid pink diamond that sold for US$71.2 million in 2017. 

 

Unusual cut:

 

While traditional diamond shapes like round, oval, and princess cuts are undeniably beautiful, there's a world of extraordinary shapes waiting to be discovered by those who seek something truly distinctive. Unusual diamond shapes not only contribute to a diamond's rarity but also offer a canvas for personal expression. These shapes go beyond the common cuts, allowing you to showcase your individuality through your jewellery choices. 

 

Some of the most captivating unusual diamond shapes include:

1. Kite Cut: Shaped like its namesake, this diamond offers an asymmetric, bold, and striking appearance, perfect for those who dare to be different.
2. Hexagonal Cut: With its six-sided design, this exceptionally rare shape is known for its unique Art Deco-like geometry and mesmerising sparkle.
3. Shield Cut: Resembling a shield, this shape adds a touch of medieval romance and uniqueness to any piece.
4. Half Moon Cut: Often used as side stones, these crescent-shaped diamonds beautifully complement other centre stones.
5. Trapezoid Cut: With its four sides and slanting edges, this shape is often used to accentuate emerald or Asscher cut centre stones.
6. Lozenge Cut: Shaped like a rhombus, these thin diamonds with acute angles create eye-catching designs, especially in rings.
7. Bullet Cut: Resembling its namesake, these are often used as distinctive side stones in engagement rings.

 

It's important to note that while shapes like pear, emerald, or cushion are sometimes considered "fancy," they are not as rare as the shapes mentioned above. Their popularity ensures a steady supply, meaning they don't contribute to a diamond's rarity in the same way as truly unusual shapes.

 

At Layla Kaisi Collection, we take pride in offering a curated selection of these rare and unusual diamond shapes. Each piece in our collection is carefully chosen to reflect not just exceptional quality, but also the unique character that these shapes bring to fine jewellery.

 

Choosing an unusual diamond shape is about more than just being different; it's about finding a piece that resonates with your personal style and story. Whether you're drawn to the geometric precision of a hexagonal cut or the romantic curves of a half moon, these unique shapes offer a way to express your individuality through timeless elegance.

 

 

 

 

The Art of Diamond Selection: LKC White-Glove Sourcing

 

Remember, when you are selecting a diamond, you're not just choosing a stone – you're investing in a work of art. We are here to guide you through the world of these extraordinary pieces, helping you find the perfect piece that will be treasured for generations to come. 

 

Your legacy in the making: welcome to The LKC Standard.