McKinney’s Guide
to Diamonds
Choosing a diamond is both a meaningful and considered decision. We’ve created this guide to help you understand the elements that matter most - from the qualities of a fine diamond to the details that define its beauty and brilliance. With clarity, care and confidence, we invite you to explore what sets McKinney’s apart and how to choose a diamond that is truly right for you.
Your Love, Your Design
Every love story is unique, and your engagement ring should be no different. At McKinneys, we craft bespoke rings that reflect your journey together.
From initial consultation to final polish, our artisans guide you through every step - bringing your vision to life in timeless luxury.
The Four C's
Carat, Cut, Colour, Clarity - each C shapes a diamond’s brilliance. We guide you to the perfect stone, as unique as your love.
Cut
Our diamonds are selected for their Triple Excellent Cut, meaning the highest standard in three areas: precision of the cut, quality of the polishing, and flawlessness of the symmetry in its shape. The result is a diamond with the ability to refract light in such a way as to sparkle perfectly.
Clarity
We measure the clarity of our diamonds by examining their structure for visible imperfections under 10-power magnification. These imperfections are categorised as either internal flaws (known as inclusions) or external flaws (blemishes on the surface). A diamond is graded as flawless if no imperfections are visible (either as inclusions or blemishes) under this exacting 10-power examination.
Colour
The colour grading of a diamond is determined by the tint within its structure, and assigned a letter alphabetically from D through to Z – with D being the highest (colourless) and Z being the lowest (light yellow). At McKinney’s, we work only with diamonds that achieve a colourless or near-colourless grading (grades D to H), making them the rarest and most desirable of all.
Carat
The mass of a diamond or other precious gemstone is measured in carats, with each carat the equivalent of 200 milligrams. Whilst the carat weight of the diamond – and therefore its size – is clearly very important, McKinney’s does not prioritise it over the other three Cs. Two diamonds of equal carat weight can have vastly different values when cut, clarity and colour are taken into account.
Shape
The shape of a diamond defines its radiant personality, with each carefully considered facet crafted by hand to reveal its innate splendour. Each cut is imbued with its own inimitable character and charm. A diamond engagement ring should capture the imagination and create a uniquely scintillating statement on the finger.
Oval
An elegant, elongated adaptation of the round brilliant cut with facets that make the light dance.
Round Brilliant
Exacting proportions reflect light and cast tiny rainbows in a dazzling display of sparkle and contrast.
Cushion
Rounded edges soften the traditional corners of a square or rectangular-cut diamond for a gently luminous effect.
Asscher
The elegant step cut draws your eye into the centre of the stone, both captivating and mesmerising the beholder.
Princess
The square shape and exacting series of angular facets create a distinctively modern look and feel.
Marquise
Possesses an elongated elliptical shape with pointed ends, creating the illusion of greater size.
Pear
Round brilliant and marquise-style cuts combine to form the teardrop shape with an extraordinary display of light.
Heart
A series of precise cuts form this classic symbol of love.
Emerald
Parallel cuts showcase the diamond's pure colour and clarity.
ASHOKA
A rare and distinctive cut with 62 perfectly aligned facets, combining round and emerald elements to create extraordinary brilliance
Coloured Gems
Celebrate your love with the vibrant beauty of coloured gemstones. From rare sapphires and rubies to radiant emeralds, we source ethically and craft with care. Whether you desire a subtle accent or a statement stone, our team transforms these treasures into rings that are as individual as your story.
Book An Appointment
Your journey begins with a conversation. Book an appointment and experience the refined attention and personal touch that McKinney's can offer.
Together, we’ll create a piece that embodies your love.