Buying Guide
The Anatomy of a Perfect Diamond
The CarbonKarat Spec Promise
What Makes a Diamond “Perfect”?
At CarbonKarat, we know every detail counts when it comes to crafting a diamond that truly dazzles. While other retailers may overlook the finer points, we obsess over them. Why? Because the perfect diamond isn’t just about passing a certification—it’s about maximizing its sparkle, beauty, and value.
Diamonds may be some of the oldest treasures on Earth, but buying them doesn’t have to feel ancient. We’ve modernized the process, combining our decades of expertise with an effortless shopping experience designed just for you.
Here’s how we break down the anatomy of a perfect diamond—and how our standards make all the difference.
The Anatomy of a Perfect Diamond
Every diamond is a masterpiece of geometry and natural beauty, where every angle, facet, and detail plays a role.
1. Table Size
What it is: The top, flat facet of the diamond.
Why it matters: It directs light into the diamond, creating brightness and sparkle.
CarbonKarat Standard: 52%–62% of the girdle diameter for optimal light return.
2. Girdle Thickness
What it is: The thin edge separating the crown and pavilion.
Why it matters: Too thick adds unnecessary weight; too thin risks chipping.
CarbonKarat Standard: Always medium to slightly thick for durability and beauty.
3. Pavilion Depth & Angle
What it is: The lower portion of the diamond and the angle at which it meets the girdle.
Why it matters: It determines how light reflects back to your eyes.
CarbonKarat Standard: Depth between 42.5%–43.5%, angle between 40.6°–41.8°.
4. Crown Height & Angle
What it is: The upper section of the diamond, sitting above the girdle.
Why it matters: Impacts fire (rainbow flashes) and brilliance.
CarbonKarat Standard: Angle between 31.5°–36.5° for balanced sparkle.
5. Culet Size
What it is: The tiny facet at the bottom point of the diamond.
Why it matters: An oversized culet disrupts the diamond’s beauty; an invisible one maintains its symmetry.
CarbonKarat Standard: No visible culet (graded “none” or “small”).
Clarity: Why We Only Offer VS and Higher
Because every diamond should shine flawlessly—inside and out.
What is Clarity?
Clarity measures the number and size of inclusions (internal flaws) or blemishes (surface flaws) in a diamond. These imperfections can affect how light passes through the stone, dulling its brilliance.
CarbonKarat Clarity Standard
Only diamonds graded VS (Very Slightly Included) or higher. At CarbonKarat, we don’t just settle for clarity grades—we meticulously inspect every diamond to ensure inclusions are minimal, well-placed, and don’t impact the stone’s sparkle or durability.
Why it matters
VS clarity ensures inclusions are invisible to the naked eye.
Anything lower (like SI or I grades) risks noticeable imperfections that disrupt the beauty of the diamond.
Color: Why F and Higher is Our Sweet Spot
Pure, timeless brilliance with no distractions.
What is Color?
Diamonds are graded on a scale from D (colorless) to Z (noticeable yellow or brown tint). Even slight differences in color can impact the overall appearance of the diamond, especially when set in a ring.
• CarbonKarat Color Standard: F or higher (Colorless to Near-Colorless).
• Why it matters:
• F-color diamonds are virtually indistinguishable from D or E to the naked eye but are more cost-efficient maximizing your budget.
• Lower grades (G and beyond) may appear slightly tinted, particularly in larger carat sizes or platinum settings.
Our Philosophy:
We believe a diamond’s beauty should be timeless. That’s why we prioritize higher color grades to ensure your stone sparkles with pristine whiteness, whether it’s set in gold or platinum.
Why CarbonKarat Stands Out
Other retailers might stop at certifications, but we know that’s just the beginning. Certifications like GIA and IGI are a great baseline, but not all “Excellent” grades are created equal.
• The Issue: Some diamonds within certification specs can still look dull or poorly cut due to small but critical details like girdle thickness, crown angles, or clarity grades.
• Our Solution: We hand-select only the finest diamonds, ensuring every parameter is perfectly balanced for brilliance.
Think of it like finding a diamond in the rough—we don’t settle for “good enough.” We select the absolute best, so you can shine confidently.
Craftsmanship Beyond the Diamond
A flawless diamond deserves an equally stunning setting. Our craftsmanship extends beyond the stone to ensure every ring is:
• Perfectly Proportioned: Designed to enhance the diamond’s natural beauty.
• Comfortable and Durable: Made to last a lifetime, without compromising elegance.
The CarbonKarat Difference
Buying a diamond shouldn’t feel overwhelming or uncertain. With CarbonKarat, you’re not just getting a diamond—you’re getting peace of mind, backed by decades of expertise.
• Effortless Expertise: We’ve done the homework, so you don’t have to.
• Unmatched Quality: Only the crème de la crème makes it into our collection.
• Transparent Confidence: Clear, honest information at every step.
Ready to Shine?
When you choose CarbonKarat, you’re choosing brilliance, beauty, and a process as flawless as the diamond itself.
Your perfect diamond is waiting. Let us help you find it.
