The 4Cs of Diamonds
The universal language of diamond quality. Understanding these four characteristics will help you find the diamond that's perfect for you.
The Most Important C
Cut
Cut refers to how well a diamond's facets interact with light. It is the most crucial of the 4Cs because it directly determines a diamond's brilliance — the brightness of white light reflecting from the surface and interior — and fire — the dispersion of light into the colors of the spectrum.
Excellent
Maximum fire and brilliance. Light entering the diamond reflects from one facet to another and disperses through the top. These diamonds represent the top 3% of gem-quality stones.
Very Good
Properly reflects most light that enters. Produces superior fire and brilliance. Considered an excellent value compared to Excellent grade.
Good
Reflects a majority of light. Much less expensive than Very Good cuts. An attractive diamond at a moderate price point.
Fair
A reasonable quality diamond at a lower price. Some light escapes through the bottom and sides. Still beautiful to the eye but with less sparkle.
Nature's Fingerprint
Clarity
Clarity measures the absence of inclusions (internal characteristics) and blemishes (external characteristics). Natural diamonds form under tremendous heat and pressure deep within the earth, and virtually all contain unique birthmarks. Diamonds with fewer and smaller inclusions receive higher clarity grades.
FL (Flawless)
No inclusions or blemishes visible under 10x magnification. Extremely rare.
IF (Internally Flawless)
No inclusions visible under 10x magnification. Minor surface blemishes only.
VVS1–VVS2
Very, very slightly included. Inclusions are difficult to see under 10x magnification.
VS1–VS2
Very slightly included. Minor inclusions visible under 10x magnification but not to the naked eye.
SI1–SI2
Slightly included. Inclusions are noticeable under 10x magnification and may be visible to the naked eye.
The Absence of Color
Color
Diamond color refers to the absence of color in a stone. The GIA color scale begins with D (colorless) and progresses to Z (light yellow or brown). Colorless diamonds are the most sought after, as they allow the most refraction of light — producing superior fire and brilliance.
D–F (Colorless)
The rarest and most valuable. Differences between D, E, and F are virtually indiscernible to anyone other than a trained gemologist.
G–J (Near Colorless)
Color typically undetectable to the untrained eye. Excellent value — these diamonds appear colorless when mounted.
K–M (Faint)
Slight color noticeable. A warm tone that some prefer, especially in yellow gold settings.
A Measure of Weight
Carat
Diamond carat weight measures a diamond's apparent size. One carat equals 200 milligrams. Each carat is subdivided into 100 'points,' allowing precise measurements to the hundredth decimal place. While carat weight correlates with size, two diamonds of equal carat weight can appear different in size depending on their cut and proportions.
Under 0.50ct
Delicate and understated. Popular for everyday wear and accent stones.
0.50–0.99ct
A classic, versatile range. Noticeable presence without being overwhelming.
1.00–1.99ct
The most popular range for engagement diamonds. A significant, eye-catching stone.
2.00ct and above
Truly exceptional. These rare diamonds command premium prices and make a bold statement.