What Are The 4 Cs of Diamonds? Before You Buy Diamonds, Learn About the 4 Cs
So, what are the 4 Cs? The 4 Cs of a diamond are cut, color, clarity, and carat weight. These evaluation criteria are the basis for grading any and every diamond, and you don't have to be pro to know if you're getting the very best for how much you're willing to spend.
So, what are the 4 Cs?
The 4 Cs of a diamond are Cut, Color, Clarity, and Carat weight. These evaluation criteria are the basis for grading any and every diamond, and you don't have to be a pro to know if you're buying the very best for how much you're willing to spend.
- Cut: This refers to how well the diamond has been shaped and faceted. Cuts are scaled from excellent to poor: excellent being a very well-cut, symmetrical diamond; and poor being a diamond lacks symmetry and proportion. A well-cut diamond reflects light brilliantly and appears luminous.
- Color: Diamonds are graded for color, with the highest quality being colorless, and the lowest taking on a slight yellow tint. The grading goes from D (colorless), to Z (light color).
- Clarity: This criteria measures the presence of imperfections or inclusions in the diamond. Flawless diamonds have no inclusions visible under magnification.
- Carat Weight: This is the measure of the diamond's weight. A higher carat signifies a larger diamond, impacting its value.
A diamond's grading directly impacts its price and value
This grading system is industry standard for diamond grading professionals and Diamontologists, and it acts as a really handy metric for when you're on the market for diamonds.
Here is a chart summarizing the 4 Cs, courtesy of GIA.
Other Grading Factors
One thing to remember is that no two diamonds are identical, even if they rank the same in their 4 C gradings. There is a threshold for each grading, so every diamond is completely unique! Don't hesitate to train your eye and compare diamonds to really understand how their grading affects their appearance.
Also, keep in mind that there are other factors that contribute to the overall look of your diamond such as fluorescence and whether it is lab created, or natural. Certified diamonds will usually have the full scope of these details.
Grading Labs
There are many reliable grading companies and labs that certify and grade diamonds. As the diamond grading process requires human assessment, make sure your diamonds are certified and graded by professionals!
Your Final Pick
Many times I've seen diamonds that are outshined by diamonds that you'd assume will look less-than-pretty based on the papers, and that's because papers don't tell the full story.
There are countless factors that contribute to how a diamond looks to the naked eye, and seeing all of them in action will look different from stone to stone.
It's important to love the stone you'll wear for years to come — beyond its grading. Read the specs, but don't forget to trust your eyes!