reckoned in proportion to the square of its weight ; or the
value was the square of the weight in carats multiplied
by eight ; * as, for example, a diamond of one carat being
forty dollars, according to this computation, one of two carats
would be one hundred and sixty dollars, and one of ten carats
four thousand dollars. This method of valuation, which is
not now used, could be applied only to stones of moderate
size, since those of great weight, sold in this way, would cost
a fabulous price. For more than a century, the value of the
diamond has been based upon the form of the brilliant, while
that of the table, rose, and other styles of cutting depends
upon other circumstances. The tint, the water, and the skill
displayed in cutting and polishing are considerations to be
taken into account, when purchasing this gem.
Perfectly colorless diamonds, entirely free from all impurities, resembling a drop of the clearest water, and exhibiting
the highest lustre, are said to be of the "first water," those
of inferior grade of the second, etc.
* At the present date, a diamond of one carat, and of perfect form, is worth
from one hundred to two hundred dollars.
