Diamond Education
Understanding the 4 Cs of Diamonds: A Guide for Our Customers
When shopping for a diamond, knowledge is your best ally. That’s why we believe every customer should understand the 4 Cs — the globally recognized standard for evaluating diamonds. These four key characteristics will help you assess a diamond’s quality and value so you can find the perfect piece with confidence.
1. Cut – The Sparkle Factor
Cut is often considered the most important of the 4 Cs. It determines how well a diamond interacts with light — how it sparkles, shines, and reflects brilliance.
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A well-cut diamond reflects light beautifully, creating that signature fire and brilliance.
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Even a high-grade diamond in color or clarity can appear dull if the cut is poor.
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Cut grades range from Excellent to Poor.
Tip: Prioritize cut when selecting a diamond. It has the greatest impact on overall beauty.
2. Color – The Absence of Hue
Diamonds are graded on a color scale from D (colorless) to Z (light yellow or brown).
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Truly colorless diamonds (D–F) are rare and more expensive.
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Near-colorless grades (G–J) often offer excellent value, especially when paired with yellow gold settings.
Tip: If you're setting your diamond in 18k yellow or rose gold, you may not need a colorless stone — the setting can complement and even mask warm tones.
3. Clarity – Nature’s Fingerprint
Clarity measures the presence of natural imperfections, called inclusions (inside the diamond) and blemishes (on the surface).
Tip: Choose an "eye-clean" diamond — one where inclusions aren’t visible without magnification — for the best balance of beauty and budget.
4. Carat Weight – Size, but Not Everything
Carat refers to the weight of the diamond, not necessarily its size. Two diamonds of the same carat can appear different in size depending on their cut and shape.
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Larger diamonds are rarer and more expensive, but a well-cut smaller diamond can still make a bold impact.
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Consider finger size and setting style when choosing carat weight.
Tip: Slight differences in carat weight (like 0.90 vs. 1.00 carat) can mean big savings without a visible size difference.
Final Advice: Balance is Key
The best diamond for you is one that balances the 4 Cs according to your personal preferences and budget. Don’t feel pressured to chase perfection in every category. Often, a slightly lower grade in one area can be compensated for with strengths in another — especially with expert guidance.
If you’re unsure where to begin, we’re here to help. Whether you're celebrating a milestone or creating a future heirloom, we’ll guide you to the diamond that tells your story best.
