Getting a little help from the ‘rock’ experts
In this age of “quiet luxury” where extravagance or indulgence whispers rather than screams, diamonds remain the ultimate expression of elegance, romance, and sophistication. For those seeking these precious stones, understanding their worth can feel like learning a new language.
Diamond dictionary decoded
Before you fall for that shiny rock, let’s decode the essential elements that make each diamond unique – the famous 4Cs that jewelry connoisseurs swear by. These were explained by experts from the IGI or International Gemological Institute which launched its first Philippine partnership with jewelry brand Tessera:
lCarat: Think of it as the diamond’s weight, measured in points (100 points = 1 carat). While bigger often means more valuable, clever cutting can make a diamond appear larger than its actual weight.
lColor: Here’s a surprise – most “white” diamonds carry subtle hints of yellow. The grading runs from D (pure colorless) to Z (light yellow). Beyond Z, you enter the enchanting world of fancy-colored diamonds – think pinks and blues.
lClarity: Nature rarely creates perfection, and diamonds come with their unique marks, called inclusions. Graded on an 11-point scale from flawless to imperfect, these tiny characteristics tell each stone’s story.
lCut: This is where science meets art. A masterfully cut diamond plays with light like a prism, creating that irresistible sparkle that turns heads. It’s all about perfect proportions and symmetry.
When an expert was asked what advice he would give someone who is about to propose marriage and wants to know which C to prioritize, this was the surprising answer: “For me, personally, I think the fourth C, the cut grade, is the most underrated or underappreciated of the four Cs. But cut is the only thing that you can see with the naked eye. So, usually, when I advise friends who ask me the same question, I would go for an excellent cut stone and maybe sacrifice a little bit on one or two of the Cs.”
Because not everything that sparkles is real
In an age where authenticity matters more than ever, Tessera has partnered with the International Gemological Institute (IGI) to offer something precious: peace of mind. Each diamond comes with a co-branded certificate – think of it as your diamond’s passport, verifying its quality and origin.
“We’re building relationships, not just selling jewelry,” says Papat Fider, the force behind Tessera. “Our partnership with IGI means every customer knows exactly what they’re investing in – genuine, ethically sourced diamonds that meet exceptional standards.”
The conscious choice
Since opening its doors in 2011, Tessera found its place in the Philippine jewelry scene by prioritizing responsible sourcing. Each diamond is selected with consideration for both environmental impact and human rights – because true luxury should never come at the cost of conscience or kindness.
