The 4 C’s of Diamonds: Evaluating Diamond Quality

The 4 C's of diamonds refer to the four characteristics that diamond professionals use to evaluate the quality of a diamond: carat weight, color, clarity, and cut. Here is a brief explanation of each of the 4 C's:

  1. Carat Weight: This refers to the weight of the diamond and is usually measured in carats. One carat is equal to 0.2 grams. The larger the diamond, the higher its carat weight, and generally, the more valuable it is.

  2. Color: The color of a diamond is graded on a scale from D to Z, with D being the most colorless and Z being the most yellow or brown. The less color a diamond has, the more valuable it is.

  3. Clarity: This refers to the presence or absence of internal and external flaws, or inclusions, in the diamond. The clarity is graded on a scale from Flawless (FL) to Included (I3), with Flawless being the most valuable.

  4. Cut: The cut of a diamond refers to its proportions, symmetry, and polish. A well-cut diamond will reflect light better and have more sparkle, making it more valuable.

It's important to note that each of the 4 C's affects the value and appearance of a diamond, and finding the right balance between them is key to selecting a diamond that suits your budget and preferences.

Back to blog