Diamond 101
SANDAK Fine Jewelry is built on the principle that buying diamonds and jewelry should be a seamless and stress-free experience. We aim to provide a truly collaborative experience, combining our industry expertise with your individual aesthetic and budgetary goals.
The SANDAK Difference:
- We are not corporate. Have an urgent question at 11pm? Bring it on! We text, we email, we send Ravens.
- We are woman owned and understand what women want!
- We are experts in working remote. In fact, 95% of our rings are purchased this way. It is the most stress-free experience on the planet.
- Most importantly, we guarantee that you will be happy with your unique, custom ring at the fairest price.
THE 4 Cs
No two diamonds are exactly alike. Therefore, in order to understand a diamonds' qualities, we use Gemological Institute of America’s (GIA) globally accepted standard for describing diamonds, otherwise known as the 4 Cs.
CUT
Cut=Sparkle!
Of the 4 Cs, the Cut is the most important component to a stone’s beauty and value. Cut is a reflection of the artistry and skill of the stone cutter in conjunction with the quality of the rough material. Cut is responsible for the display of light a diamond displays, poorly cut diamonds will appear dull as light can leak out the sides or the bottom. We want the sparkle where we can see it, facing you!
Fun Fact: You may hear the term “XXX” in your diamond search (don’t get any ideas!). This term refers to stones that have Excellent Cut, Polish, and Symmetry.
Shape=Personal Taste
There is no right or wrong when it comes to shape, it is truly a personal preference. We can walk you through the characteristics of each shape.
COLOR
Color=How white your diamond will look
Color actually refers to the lack of color in a stone. The GIA grades diamond color on a scale beginning with D and continues to Z. Most stones sold will fall into the Colorless or Near Colorless range.
CLARITY
Clarity=Absence of imperfections
A diamond’s Clarity grade is based on imperfections that occur in almost every diamond under 10x magnification. Most imperfections can only be seen under magnification and cannot be detected with the naked eye. The term ‘eye clean” means that to the untrained, naked eye; imperfections cannot be seen. Clarity grades S1/S2 and above typically achieve this objective depending on where the inclusions are located.
CARAT WEIGHT
Carat Weight=the actual WEIGHT of the stone, often correlated with size.
Carat weight is a measurement of how much a diamond weighs. Each carat is divided into 100 points. For example .25ct=25 points. A diamond may appear larger than its carat weight suggests. Prices increases as carat weight goes up, as larger diamonds are more rare.
DARYL SANDAK
Sandak was born when friends and family started seeking my advice for engagement ring purchases. As a 15 year jewelry veteran, I helped them navigate the diamond world. The idea to create my own brand came when I couldn't find pieces in the market that could be mixed, matched, and stacked effortlessly. I design jewelry that is not only collected but worn day in and day out. I've always been drawn to fine jewelry for it's ability to make one look elevated & effortless with minimal maintenance.
In my free time I enjoy and annoy my husband, Michael and son, Shea.