What are the 4cs?
March 29, 2024The 4Cs of diamond quality are Color, Clarity, Cut, and Carat weight. Each of these characteristics plays a significant role in determining the overall quality and value of a diamond.
When shopping for a diamond, it’s essential to consider all four of these factors to choose a stone that matches your preferences and budget.
Color
The color of a diamond ranges from colorless to yellow or brown, with colorless diamonds being the most valuable. The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) grades diamond color on a scale from D (colorless) to Z (light yellow or brown).
Cut
The cut of a diamond refers to its proportions, symmetry, and polish, which directly impact its brilliance and sparkle. A well-cut diamond will reflect light effectively, creating a dazzling appearance. The cut is graded from Excellent to Poor.
Clarity
Diamond clarity refers to the presence of inclusions or blemishes within the stone. The clarity of diamonds is graded on a scale ranging from Flawless (no inclusions or blemishes visible under 10x magnification) to Included (inclusions visible to the naked eye).
Carat Weight
Carat weight is a measure of a diamond’s size and weight. One carat is equivalent to 0.2 grams, and larger diamonds are usually more valuable than smaller ones. Diamond prices can increase significantly with higher carat weights.