The Ultimate 4Cs Guide
A basic understanding of the four Cs of diamond quality is essential for navigating the diamond industry. But knowing which ones to focus on and how to evaluate the quality of a diamond can be a challenge. This guide explains how to assess each of the four Cs and how they affect the appearance of a diamond.
The first thing you need to know is that carat weight is not the same as diamond size. The carat weight refers to the actual weight of the 4 cs of diamonds. One carat is equal to about 200 milligrams (0.2 grams), about the weight of a quarter. The diamond’s size is also determined by its cut and shape. Although these factors play an important role in determining the price of a diamond, overall brilliance and fire should be given more importance.
Cut: The cut of a diamond is the most important of the four Cs. This criterion determines a diamond’s fire, brilliance, and sparkle. A well-cut diamond has proportions that maximize the diamond’s fire, brilliance, reflection, and fire.
Diamonds Defined – The Ultimate 4Cs Guide
Clarity: Clarity is another important factor. The presence of tiny inclusions in a diamond affects its price. A diamond with a higher clarity score is considered more valuable. Internal flaws are called inclusions, while external flaws are called blemishes. A jeweler or gemologist can rate the clarity of a diamond by using a grading system.
Cut: A diamond’s cut is the most important of the 4Cs, according to most diamond industry professionals. A good cut makes a diamond sparkle, but the other two Cs play a significant role in its value and beauty. Taking a look at all four of these Cs is an important step in selecting a diamond.
Color: The color of a diamond depends on the cut. A diamond’s cut will determine the amount of light it can reflect, so the cut should be of prime importance. The American Gem Society has a patented color-grading system, called the Light Performance Cut, which helps determine how a diamond’s cut affects its appearance.
Ethics: The ethical diamond industry is a hot topic for many shoppers. The American Gem Society (AGS) is an industry organization that provides consumer education and sets industry standards. To support its mission, AGS Laboratories is a nonprofit diamond-grading laboratory. These laboratories adhere to AGS Diamond Grading Standards, and issue reports based on scientific findings.
Colour: Colour refers to the shade of yellow or brown inside the diamond. A diamond graded D-Z is considered colorless, while diamonds on the lower end of the scale have a hint of yellow. The diamond’s color affects the sparkle and brightness of a diamond, and can be a visual distraction. The diamond’s color grade is also used to determine its cost.