Note 71 — Chapter XXXIX · PRECIOUS STONES.
Reading edition
In the Brazilian diamond trade, the oitava (17½ carats) is considered as the unity of weight. It is subdivided into 4 quartas or 32 vintems; the vintem is equal to 218⁄100 grains. Stones of half a vintem still pass as good ware (fazenda ainda boa), when well-shaped and colourless. Middling ware (fazenda mediana) consists of from 64 to 100 stones to the oitava, while all below that weight is sold as refuse.