Know Your Diamonds
Understanding the 4Cs of Diamonds
Cut
The cut of a diamond is not its shape but how well it’s proportioned and polished. A diamond’s cut determines how it reflects light, giving it that dazzling sparkle. A well-cut diamond will have the perfect angles and symmetry to maximize its brilliance and fire. Cuts are graded from Excellent to Poor, with Excellent cuts ensuring the most breathtaking radiance.
Color
Diamonds are graded on a color scale from D (completely colorless) to Z (noticeable yellow or brown tint). The closer a diamond is to being colorless, the rarer and more valuable it is. Colorless diamonds are sought after for their purity and elegance, while slightly tinted diamonds can offer some warmth and character.
Clarity
Clarity evaluates the presence of natural inclusions (internal flaws) and blemishes (external flaws) within a diamond. The scale ranges from Flawless (no imperfections visible even under 10x magnification) to Included (imperfections visible to the naked eye). Higher clarity grades ensure a more flawless appearance, though inclusions can sometimes be invisible to the unaided eye.
Carat
Carat weight measures a diamond’s size and weight. While larger diamonds often attract attention, carat weight is just one aspect of beauty. A smaller diamond with an excellent cut can appear more brilliant than a larger, poorly cut one. The key is finding a balance between size and quality that matches your style and budget.