Diamonds - There are few substances in nature, if any, more precious, weight for weight, than the diamond. And none more lasting. But a diamond does not start as a gem of marvelous beauty. It takes many steps and the skills of many craftsmen to bring you the diamond that sparkles in your fine jewelry. All diamonds are rare, but some are rarer than others. Just like fine wines, watches, horses, cars... all diamonds have qualities and characteristics that make them different from each other and more or less valuable. No two diamonds are the same!
We at Parkhill Jewelry feel it is important for you to understand these differences. There are four main characteristics of a diamond that we will consider in this section: CUT, COLOR, CLARITY, and CARAT weight (The Four c's). There are, however, several other characteristics to consider and your Parkhill Jewelry representitive will discuss them with you.

Carat - While Karat (with a K) pertains to the pure gold content of the mounting of your ring, CARAT (with a C) refers to the size of your diamond and the measure of its weight. A carat is divided into 100 "points." CARAT 1/5 1/4 1/3 1/2 3/4 1ct 2cts POINTS 20 25 33 50 75 100 200

But size and weight alone do not determine the value of a diamond. For instance, it is very possible for a smaller diamond to be worth more than a larger one. The other three C's must also be considered in arriving at the cost of a diamond. Example 1. From one piece of rough a diamond has been cut to Ideal proportions, retaining a weight of one carat. The light is totally reflected through the top. Example 2. The second piece of rough has been "spread" in its cutting, resulting in a diamond weighing approximately 1.40 ct. Note: The girdle is thicker, the table is much larger, the angles are exaggerated, all at the expense of that diamond's ability to reflect light. Therefore, one can see the value of a diamond can vary as much a 40% in the cutting alone.

	The Ideal Cut: When a round brilliant diamond has been cut to "Ideal" proportions by a master cutter, it is a splendor to behold. The Ideal Cut Diamond describes a round brilliant diamond that has been cut to exact and mathematically proven proportions.
It's symmetry, with 58 exactly placed facets, produces the ultimate in lustre and beauty. When a diamond is cut to the ideal proportions, all of the light entering from any direction is totally reflected through the top and is dispersed into a display of sparkling flashes and rainbow colors.
	A Premium Cut diamond demonstrates subtle variations from the Ideal Cut. Although dimensional differences affect a diamond's reflection of light, a Premium Cut still achieves a harmonious balance between its proportions and the display of brilliance.
Inferior Cut: Most diamonds are "spread" in their cutting to retain maximum weight from the original rough. A heavier diamond will result, but at a dramatic sacrifice of potential fire and brilliance.

	Ideal Cut: Light* entering the diamond reflects internally from the facet and is reflected back through the top ONLY, creating maximum brilliance.
	Too Deep: When a diamond is cut too deep, light* leaks out of the bottom, brilliance is lost and the center of the diamond will appear to be dark.
	Too Shallow: When a diamond is cut too shallow, light* leaks out of the bottom, brilliance is lost and the diamond appears watery, glassy and dark.
* Arrows on the diagram simulate the flow of light in the diamond.

Color - Diamonds are found in nature in all colors of the rainbow, and some are very rare. The magnificent 44-1/2 Carat "Hope" diamond, for instance, is a sapphire blue. Any variance from white or colorless not only affects the price, but the beauty of a diamond as well. Most diamonds, although appearing colorless, actually have slight tones of yellow or brown. As these tones become more easily apparent, the rarity and the cost decrease. Ideal cutting dramatizes the rare splendor of a diamond because it produces such a dazzling brilliance.

Clarity - Practically all diamonds contain naturally occuring internal characteristics called inclusions. The size, nature, location and amount of inclusions determine a diamond's clarity grade and affect its cost. One unique advantage of the Ideal Cut is that its sparkle can mask otherwise noticeable inclusions.

Shape - If your preference is other than the "Brilliant" cut (round) diamond, Parkhill Jewelry has or can get the shape to suit your fancy. Our selection includes exceptionally well-proportioned "Fancy" cuts such as the Marquise, Oval, and Pear, as well as more exotic cuts such as the Emerald, Heart, and Princess cut diamonds. Note: Diagrams courtesy of the Gemological Institute of America.

Other important information to remember in selecting your diamond engagement ring or fine jewelry: Diamond prices are set by the world demand on these gems. In most cases, bargain prices result only in lower grades being presented as finer goods. DON'T BE FOOLED! Do not be fooled by illusions. Parkhill Jewelry shows diamonds under normal lighting, not color correcting bulbs. We feel this is the correct way to select your diamond jewelry since this is likely to be the same lighting you'll enjoy your jewelry in. Worksmanship is another concern with selecting your fine jewlery. Look at your selection carefully. If the setting job is poor, you'll be able to tell. At Parkhill Jewelry, most of our diamonds are set by us. Others must meet our fine standards prior to being part of our inventory. Diamond prices change with each change of the four C's. As stated prior, no two diamonds are the same. Be very careful in trying to compare. When you do compare diamonds, be sure to compare the jewelers and their capabilities. In most cases, cheaper is not better. Parkhill Jewelry is "Central Pennsylvainia's Diamond source" because of our commitment to quality and fine service. We have been providing Central Pennsylvania with fine quality jewelry since 1987. We would be proud to become your jeweler. Please feel free to contact us at any time and discuss any concerns or problems. The owner of Parkhill Jewelry is Bernie Shiffler and he is easily reached at either of our locations. Thank you for considering Parkhill Jewelry for this or any of your fine jewelry needs!

5 West Main Street, Ephrata, PA 17522 - (717) 733-8800

sales@parkhilljewelry.com