Understanding the 4Cs of diamonds is the key to understanding what types of diamonds you'll want to look for when choosing a diamond for yourself, your boss, or a client.

The 4 C's of Diamonds

The Four C’s of Diamonds stand for Carat, Cut, Clarity and Color. These are the universal characteristics to describe a diamond. Here we will discuss what each characteristic means and how it affects a diamonds value.

Carat weight is how a diamond is measured and is the size of the diamond. One carat is equal to 200 milligrams. Diamonds with a higher carat weight will be more valuable than those with a lower carat weight because they are rarer. However, two diamonds of the same carat weight can have different values depending on the other three c’s.

Cut is how well the diamond has been cut and includes the height, depth, angles and other factors. A well-cut diamond will have symmetry, brightness, fire and life. The better the cut, the more brilliant and sparkly the diamond will be. Cut also affects the diamond’s overall shape such as round, oval, pear or marquise.

Clarity is how many blemishes or inclusions and is judged on a 6 point scale from included to flawless. Inclusions are internal imperfections that occur when a diamond is formed deep within the earth. Blemishes are external imperfections that occur after the diamond has been cut or polished. Flaws can affect a diamonds value but they can also be hidden by setting the diamond in jewelry so it is not always necessary to have a flawless diamond.

Color is judged on a scale from D (no hue) to Z (a yellow hued diamond). Most diamonds used in jewelry are in the D-J range. The less color a diamond has, the more valuable it is because it is rarer. However, some people prefer diamonds with a slight yellow hued because it gives the diamond a warmer appearance.

Carat weight, cut, clarity and color are the Four C’s of Diamonds that are used to describe a diamond and affect its value.



Why they’re Important

If you're in the market for a diamond, it's important to be aware of the "Four Cs. 4 cs of diamonds stand for Carat, Cut, Clarity, and Color. These are the factors that determine a diamond's value.

The carat weight is how a diamond is measured and is the size of the diamond. The cut of a diamond is how well it has been cut and includes the height, depth, angles, and other factors. It affects the diamond's symmetry, brightness, fire, and how sparkly the diamond appears. Clarity is how many blemishes or inclusions and is judged on a 6 point scale from included to flawless. Finally, color is judged on a scale from D (no hue) to Z (a yellow hued diamond).

How to Make the Right Purchase

When you are shopping for diamonds, it is important to keep the "Four Cs" in mind: Carat, Cut, Clarity, and Color. These are the characteristics that determine the value of a diamond.

Carat weight is how a diamond is measured and is the size of the diamond. The cut of a diamond is how well it has been cut and includes the height, depth, angles, and other factors. Clarity is how many blemishes or inclusions and is judged on a 6 point scale from included to flawless. Color is judged on a scale from D (no hue) to Z (a yellow hued diamond).

Keep this Four Cs in mind when shopping for diamonds because they will affect a fifth c, the cost. Work with a qualified jeweler to find the best value for your money.