What does CTTW diamond mean?
**CTTW stands for Carat Total Weight, and it is a unit of measurement used to describe the total weight of all diamonds in a piece of jewelry. This includes the weight of the center stone as well as any surrounding smaller stones. So, when you see a CTTW diamond, it means that the total weight of all the diamonds in the piece adds up to that specific carat weight.**
When shopping for diamond jewelry, it is essential to understand the difference between carat weight and total carat weight. Carat weight refers to the weight of an individual diamond, while total carat weight considers the combined weight of all diamonds in a setting.
What is the difference between Carat Weight and Total Carat Weight?
Carat weight refers to the weight of an individual diamond, whereas total carat weight (CTTW) considers the combined weight of all diamonds in a piece of jewelry. For example, a ring with a 1-carat center stone and 0.25 carats of accent diamonds would have a total carat weight of 1.25 carats.
How is CTTW calculated?
To calculate the CTTW of a piece of diamond jewelry, simply add together the carat weights of all the diamonds in the setting. For example, if a ring has a 0.75-carat center stone and two 0.25-carat side stones, the total carat weight would be 1.25 carats.
Does CTTW include the weight of non-diamond gemstones?
No, CTTW specifically refers to the total weight of diamonds in a piece of jewelry. Non-diamond gemstones, such as rubies or sapphires, are not included in the CTTW measurement.
Is CTTW the same as Diamond Equivalent Weight (DEW)?
No, CTTW and DEW are not the same. CTTW refers to the total weight of all diamonds in a piece of jewelry, while DEW is a term used to describe the total weight of all the diamond simulants in a piece of jewelry, such as moissanite or cubic zirconia.
Does CTTW affect the value of a diamond?
While carat weight is a significant factor in determining a diamond’s value, CTTW alone does not dictate the overall value of a piece of jewelry. Other factors such as diamond quality (cut, color, clarity) also play a crucial role in determining the value of a diamond.
Should I prioritize CTTW when shopping for diamond jewelry?
When shopping for diamond jewelry, it is essential to consider the overall design, quality, and craftsmanship of the piece in addition to the CTTW. While CTTW can give you an idea of the total weight of diamonds in a piece, it should not be the only factor you consider when making a purchase.
How can I ensure the accuracy of CTTW in diamond jewelry?
To ensure the accuracy of the CTTW in diamond jewelry, ask the jeweler for a certification from a reputable gemological laboratory, such as the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) or the American Gem Society (AGS). These certifications will provide detailed information about the quality and specifications of the diamonds in the piece.
Does a higher CTTW always mean better quality?
Not necessarily. While a higher CTTW may indicate a larger and heavier piece of jewelry, it does not guarantee better quality. It is essential to consider other factors such as diamond cut, color, clarity, and overall design when assessing the quality of a diamond piece.
Are there different standards for CTTW in different countries?
While the concept of CTTW is universal, different countries may have slightly different standards for measuring and reporting diamond weights. It is essential to be aware of these differences when shopping for diamond jewelry internationally.
Can the CTTW of a piece of jewelry be customized?
Yes, the CTTW of a piece of jewelry can be customized based on your preferences and budget. You can work with a jeweler to select diamonds of different sizes and weights to achieve your desired total carat weight for a customized piece.
Does CTTW impact the durability of diamond jewelry?
CTTW does not directly impact the durability of diamond jewelry. The durability of a piece of jewelry is determined by factors such as the quality of the diamonds, the metal used in the setting, and how well the piece is cared for over time.