4 Cs
Carat
A diamond’s carat refers to its weight, not its size. One carat equals 0.2 grams (about the weight of a paperclip). Carat is one of the "4 Cs" that define a diamond’s quality and value.
Diamond price doesn’t rise evenly with carat weight — it increases exponentially. For example, a 2-carat diamond may cost 3–4× more than a 1-carat of similar quality, because larger diamonds are rarer.
While larger carat weight typically means a larger diamond, the shape and cut of the stone affect how big it appears. For example, a well-cut 1-carat diamond may appear bigger and sparkle more than a poorly cut 1.2-carat diamond.
Color
Diamond color refers to the natural tint found in white diamonds. Most diamonds contain traces of yellow or brown, and the less color a diamond has, the higher its value — assuming other qualities are equal. The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) grades diamond color on a scale from D (colorless) to Z (light yellow or brown).
Colorless Diamonds: D–F these diamonds are the rarest and most expensive. They appear icy white and reflect the most light, especially when set in white gold or platinum.
Near Colorless Diamonds: G–J this range offers excellent value. Any tint is very subtle and difficult to detect unless compared side by side with a higher-grade diamond.
Faint to Light Color: K–Z diamonds graded K and below begin to show a visible yellow tint, especially in larger stones. Some vintage or antique-style jewelry may intentionally use these stones for a warm, classic look.
Cut
Diamond cut refers to how well a diamond’s facets interact with light, not the shape (like round or oval). It’s considered the most important of the 4 Cs (Cut, Carat, Clarity, Color) because it determines the diamond’s brilliance, fire, and sparkle. A well-cut diamond will reflect light beautifully — even if it’s lower in carat or color.
GIA Diamond Cut Grades
Excellent Maximum brilliance and sparkle; ideal proportions. Very Good Great light performance; slightly less sparkle. Good Decent brilliance; may leak some light. Fair Noticeable dullness; less fire and brightness. Poor Little sparkle; light escapes from bottom or sides.
Clarity
Clarity refers to the natural imperfections (called inclusions and blemishes) inside or on the surface of a diamond. Most diamonds form under extreme pressure and heat, so it's normal for them to have tiny marks — like fingerprints of nature. These marks affect how clean and sparkly a diamond looks — and how it's valued.
FL-Flawless-No inclusions or blemishes under 10x magnification.
IF-Internally Flawless-No internal flaws; only surface blemishes.
VVS1-VVS2-Very Very Slightly Included- Inclusions are extremely difficult to see.
VS1-VS2-Very Slightly Included- Minor inclusions; difficult to detect without magnification.
SI1-SI2-Slightly Included- Noticeable under 10x; often not visible to the naked eye.
I1-I3-Included- Obvious inclusions; may affect transparency and durability.
