A diamond is a gemstone that many dream of having in their engagement or wedding rings — and it’s easy to see why. Its brilliance, beauty, and symbolism of eternal love make it one of the most desired gems in the world.
Today, let’s explore in a simple and elegant way how diamonds are classified.
What Are the 4 Cs of Diamonds?
The 4 Cs of Diamonds are a set of internationally recognized criteria created by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA). They define a diamond’s quality and value through four main characteristics: Color, Clarity, Carat Weight, and Cut. These aspects together determine the rarity, brilliance, and worth of each diamond.
1. Color
Color is one of the most important features in diamond grading. The GIA’s D–Z color scale is the global standard.
- D–F: Colorless — the rarest and most valuable.
- G–J: Near colorless — a faint tint visible only to experts.
- K–Z: Increasing yellow or brown hues, gradually lowering in value.
Beyond Z, diamonds are classified as fancy color diamonds. These rare and precious gems can appear in pink, blue, green, and other vibrant shades, ranking among the world’s most extraordinary stones.
2. Clarity
Clarity measures a diamond’s internal purity — the presence or absence of tiny inclusions or blemishes. Using a 10x magnification, experts evaluate the degree of perfection. Just like with color, there’s an international clarity scale ranging from Flawless (FL) to Included (I). The fewer the inclusions, the greater the brilliance and value.
3. Carat Weight
Carat is the unit of measurement for a diamond’s weight — 1 carat equals 0.2 grams. Generally, the more carats a diamond has, the larger, rarer, and more valuable it becomes. However, two diamonds of the same carat weight can differ greatly in value depending on their cut, clarity, and color.
4. Cut
The cut refers not to the diamond’s shape, but to the quality of its proportions and finish. A well-cut diamond optimizes light reflection, enhancing brilliance and sparkle — the true signature of a high-quality stone. The better the cut, the more radiant the diamond.
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