Natural & Lab Grown

The stone is the starting point for every Cahve designed Engagement Ring, whether that be a Natural or Lab Grown Diamond, or a precious gemstone, like an Emerald or Sapphire.

In any case, we only work with ethically and sustainably sourced stones, in an unlimited variety of shapes and sizes, certified by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA).

The Four C's

In the 1940s, the GIA established the “4Cs” and the International Diamond Grading System™ which remains to this day, the worldwide standard for evaluating diamond quality.

Here's everything you need to know when selecting a Diamond.

1

Cut

Cut refers to the way a diamond has been faceted, polished and proportioned for symmetry. A well-cut diamond will maximise the way a stone interacts with light, creating a stunning display of sparkle and scintillation.

Diamond Cut can be graded on 7 criteria. Brightness (the total light reflected from a diamond), Fire (the dispersion of light) and Scintillation (the sparkle when a diamond is moved). Weight Ratio, Durability, Polish and Symmetry are all related to a Diamond's design and craftsmanship.
2

Colour

Diamond colour is all about what you can’t see. The value of white diamonds is determined by their proximity to 'colourlessness'. The more a diamond lacks colour, the higher its value will be.

GIA’s diamond colour-grading scale is recognised as the global industry standard. The scale begins with the letter D, representing colourless diamonds, then progresses through the alphabet with increasing presence of colour.
3

Carat

Diamonds and other gemstones are weighed in metric carats: one carat is equal to 0.2 grams, about the same weight as a paperclip.

Just as a pound is divided into 100 pennies, a carat is divided into 100 points. For example, a 50-point diamond weighs 0.50 carats, although two diamonds equal in weight can have contrasting values, depending on the other members of the Four C’s; Clarity, Colour and Cut.

Cahve Studio - Engagement Ring
4

Clarity

Diamonds are formed deep within the earth, under extreme heat and pressure and often contain unique birthmarks, either internal (inclusions) or external (blemishes).

Diamond clarity refers to the absence of these inclusions and blemishes. Diamonds without these birthmarks are rare (in such cases known as Flawless Diamonds), and rarity influences a Diamonds value.

The GIA Clarity Scale contains 11 grades, with most diamonds falling into the VS (very slightly included) or SI (slightly included) categories.
Coloured Gemstones

Alternative Stone Options

Diamonds not your thing? Fear not, the alternatives are equally as exciting! Precious stones such as Emeralds, Sapphires, Rubies and Opals are all equally beautiful options. We'll help source the best possible stone(s) and build into the perfect ring design. You name it, we'll find it.