Polish
    
    
      
        
        Polish refers to the quality of a diamond’s surface and is essential in maximizing a diamond's fire, brilliance, and scintillation.
      
    
  
 
        
        
  
    Fluorescence
    
    
      
        
        Fluorescence is the visible light some diamonds emit when they are exposed to invisible ultraviolet rays (UV). Approximately one third of diamonds emit some degree of fluorescence.
      
    
  
 
        
          
          
          
            Very Strong
            Strong
            Medium
            Faint
            None
          
         
        
        
        
        
       
    
       
      
        
  
    Symmetry
    
    
      
        
        Symmetry refers to the arrangement and even placement of a diamond’s facets. A symmetrical facet arrangement maximizes beauty and minimizes the potential for light loss.
      
    
  
 
        
        
  
    Luster
    
    
      
        
        Luster refers to the way light interacts with a diamond. A diamond with a low luster grade may exhibit a hazy or oily finish, often referred to as “milky” or “greasy”. Though commonly omitted from diamond certificates, the diamond industry deems luster grade integral in establishing value.
      
    
  
 
        
          
          
          
            Fair
            Good
            Very Good
            Excellent
          
         
        
  
    Black Inclusions
    
    
      
        
        Black inclusions are black crystals contained within a diamond, and due to their high visibility are considered less desirable. Though not listed on most diamond certificates, nor disclosed by most retailers, it is standard practice within the diamond industry to disclose and evaluate diamonds depending on the degree and severity of black inclusions.