Cut, clarity, color and carat -- we've all heard these terms to describe diamonds. But now I'm learning a book full of terminology including needle, pit, nick, knot, bearded girdle, etc. to describe a diamond's value and clarity. Kind of confusing, especially since I don't have any examples to study at home....but maybe someday. The GIA course in Diamond Essentials, however, uses videos and slide shows to help me learn all the finer points. Next time I go to a fine jewelry store, I'm going to ask to see a diamond ring and then ask for the "plot" on the Diamond Grading Report. I might have to get a jewelers loupe as well, so I look really official.
