The 4Cs of Diamonds: Let’s Evaluate Diamond Quality?
Purchasing a diamond is one of the most important decisions you will make in your life. When you are on the market for a diamond, it’s important to consider all the aspects to ensure you are getting the most value for your money.
In the world of diamonds, there is an accepted set of criteria for judging the quality of a diamond known as the 4Cs–these are cut, colour, clarity, and carat weight. Developed in the 1940s, the 4Cs have gone on to become the universal standard for assessing diamond quality. Below, we have elaborated on each of the four Cs to help guide you through purchasing a diamond:
Cut: Dare to Dazzle
Diamond cut refers to the shape, symmetry, and shine of a diamond as determined by a gemologist’s shaping of the stone. Depending on the quality of the work done, this can influence the brightness and ability of a diamond to reflect light both internally and externally. The higher a diamond’s cut quality, the higher the price tag.
Colour: Shining and Captivating
When judging diamond colour, experts use a colour grading scale that has grades ranging from D (colourless, the rarest and most expensive grade) to Z (noticeably yellow). The less colour a diamond has, the more valuable and rarer it is considered to be. The three highest grades–D, E, and F–are the only three grades awarded to a diamond that is considered colourless.
While colourless diamonds are generally more popular, this does not mean that yellower diamonds are necessarily unappealing. These can still be great options for a given personal style, as a slight hint of colour can also be just as beautiful as a colourless diamond while coming at a friendlier price.
Clarity: Shining Bright
Natural patterns within a diamond–known as inclusions–can also affect the valuation of the diamond. Generally speaking, the fewer inclusions a diamond has, the more valuable and flawless the stone is considered to be.
The diamond clarity grading scale for diamonds ranges from Included, which indicates the presence of inclusions visible to the naked eye; to Flawless, which suggests no inclusions visible up to 10x magnification under a microscope.
Like full moons, flawless diamonds can be rare and breathtaking–but inclusions can pepper a diamond like a constellation in the night sky, giving it a uniquely beautiful character that only complements its brilliance. Diamonds rated SI1 and SI2 offer good value, with minimal inclusions visible to the naked eye. Diamonds with fewer inclusions are naturally more visually appealing, and for that reason typically fetch higher prices.
Carat Weight
The carat weight of a diamond is a measure of the stone’s size, with the conversion equaling 1 carat for every 0.2 grams of weight. The more carat weight a diamond has, the larger it is, and generally the more valuable.
Of course, the other three Cs still factor into the valuation of a diamond–sometimes, a diamond that is smaller but with superior cut, colour, and clarity can fetch a higher price than a larger diamond with inferior cut, colour, and clarity. While larger diamonds are generally more valuable, there’s an appropriate setting, time, and place for every shape and size of diamond. Smaller diamonds are ideal for a more subtle and muted look–great for professional or conservative events. On the other hand, large diamonds are considered to be grand or luxurious, making them great statement pieces in more relaxed environments.
Diamond Jewellery For You
Michael Trio offers a wide variety of diamond jewellery that caters to different tastes and preferences. Whether you are looking for diamond rings, diamond bracelets, diamond earrings, or diamond necklaces, Michael Trio has an extensive collection to choose from. Each piece is crafted with precision and care, ensuring that you receive a stunning piece of jewellery that will be cherished for years to come.
One of the key aspects of purchasing diamond jewellery from Michael Trio is the assurance of quality and authenticity. All diamonds from Michael Trio are certified, providing you with detailed information about the diamond’s characteristics and confirming its quality. You can learn more about diamond certification on our Diamond Certificates page.
Furthermore, Michael Trio is committed to sourcing diamonds from reputable providers who adhere to ethical practices. You can be certain that the diamonds are conflict-free, ensuring that your purchase supports responsible and sustainable practices. For more information on our commitment to ethical sourcing, visit our Conflict-Free Diamond page.
Beyond the 4 Cs
While the 4Cs remain a tried and tested gold standard for measuring the objective value of diamonds, there is some flexibility in each criteria for personal taste. If it fits the wearer’s sense of style, a smaller, coloured diamond with inclusions may resonate more with the wearer than a more traditional diamond.
At the end of the day, personal style and comfort can be a more important consideration than popular appeal–as long as the wearer feels confident and comfortable with the choice of diamond, a unique and personalised diamond can be just as timeless and classical as a diamond that gets a perfect score from the 4Cs.Check out for our selection of high quality diamonds.