What Makes A Diamond Sparkle?

Whether buying a diamond as an investment, for an engagement ring, or even as a centerpiece in one of your jewelry sets, the beauty of a diamond is undeniable. A diamond's breathtaking light show is the reason we adore this stone. But, getting the right sparkle requires a good amount of research and knowledge.

What Is Sparkle In A Diamond?

A diamond's sparkle is a result of its interaction with light. Gemologists describe sparkle as both brightness and fire. When light is reflected off the interior surfaces (facets) of a diamond, it's either reflected/perceived as white light (brightness) or colored light (fire). Therefore, diamond cuts have as many facets for ideal light reflection.

Factors to Consider For The Most Sparkle

The 4Cs of Diamond Quality, created by GIA , is the universal method for assessing the quality of any diamond anywhere in the world — color, clarity, cut, and carat weight. Familiarizing yourself with this information will be advantageous while selecting your diamonds.

2. Diamond's Cut Type and Shape

A well-cut diamond will reflect much more light than a poorly cut one, resulting in a more substantial, more visible sparkle. It is recommended to limit your diamonds to a high-quality cut grade.

Also, the more facets a diamond has, the more reflective surfaces there are to spring back and scatter light. If you're looking for the sparkliest diamond, a round brilliant cut diamond with 57/58 facets is your best bet over a single cut diamond with fewer facets.

If you are interested in a fancy-shaped diamond, you should consider a high-quality cut grade marquise, oval, pear, and heart cuts. The princess, radiant, and cushion cuts look fantastic when cut to a high standard.

3. Examine the Diamond Under Different Light Sources

The diamond's facet arrangement, proportions, and quality will affect its sparkle.

Consider the lighting conditions you'll wear your diamond in and ask to look at it under such conditions. Notably; spotlights, diffused light, fluorescent lights, and under natural light.

4. Be Keen on the Cut Quality

The best quality diamonds display a consistent pattern with good contrast between light and dark areas, so the reflections appear crisp and well-balanced. It's advisable to stick to diamonds with an excellent (GIA) or ideal (AGS) cut grade. The cut quality of the 4Cs of diamond quality has the most significant impact on a diamond's brilliance and fire.

5. Diamond Size and Setting

You'd naturally assume that the bigger the diamond, the more the sparkle. But, for diamonds of the same cut quality, the only noticeable difference is in their physical size. The sparkle will be the same.

The trick lies in choosing the perfect setting. A prong setting is advisable to allow light to enter the diamond from every angle, maximizing its sparkle.

6. The More, the Merrier

That's right! The more the diamonds used, the more the sparkle. Adding diamonds as side stones or as a halo around a center stone will maximize sparkle despite the size. Although the center diamond won't sparkle more, the smaller stones will sparkle on their own, adding to the brightness.

7. Good Color and Clarity

Lower-grade diamonds will diminish brightness, and poor clarity will also reduce the diamond's appearance. It's advisable to stick to diamonds with GIA and AGS certification from quality, reputable and trustworthy vendors like us at Landsberg Jewelers.

8. Proper Maintenance

A diamond that's not well cleaned will not sparkle. It's probably the most straightforward and least costly tip. Keeping your diamonds clean will maximize their fire and brilliance.

Read our other blog posts on home DIY ways to clean your diamond and jewelry!

How Can We Help?

The above tips will aid you in adding a treasure to your collection, and we would love to be a part of your experience. At Landsberg Jewelers, we have a decent collection of diamond pieces to suit your taste and preference. Contact us today for some of our unique designs.