The Four Cs of Buying Diamonds

The Four Cs of buying diamonds—Cut, Clarity, Color, and Carat Weight—are the main criteria used to evaluate the quality and value of a diamond. Each "C" affects the stone’s appearance and overall worth. The cut refers to how well the diamond is shaped and reflects light, clarity measures the absence of internal flaws, color refers to the diamond’s hue (with the best being colorless), and carat weight indicates the diamond's size.

Example

A buyer selects a diamond based on its cut grade, opting for an excellent cut to maximize the stone's brilliance, even if the carat weight is slightly lower.

Key points

• Cut: Refers to how well the diamond is shaped and its ability to reflect light.

• Clarity: Measures internal and external imperfections.

• Carat Weight: Indicates the size or weight of the diamond.

Quick Answers to Curious Questions

How do the Four Cs affect a diamond’s value?

Each "C"—cut, clarity, color, and carat weight—impacts the overall beauty and rarity of the diamond, directly influencing its price.

Why is the cut considered the most important of the Four Cs?

The cut affects how well the diamond reflects light, making it appear more brilliant and enhancing its visual appeal.

What is the relationship between carat weight and price in diamonds?

As carat weight increases, so does the price, but the other factors (cut, clarity, and color) also play a significant role in determining the overall value.