The 4Cs Of Diamonds: Your Ultimate Guide
WHAT ARE THE 4CS OF DIAMONDS?
The 4Cs of diamonds are cut, colour, clarity, and carat weight. These elements, commonly known as the 4Cs, serve as the international benchmark for evaluating diamonds. Each C has a specific way of being measured and graded; their quality is recorded in a diamond grading report.
CUT
The most important thing to remember about a diamond’s cut is that it is not the same thing as its shape. The cut refers to the arrangement of the diamond's facets, which greatly influences its brilliance. Among the 4Cs, the cut holds significance as it determines the desired sparkle of a diamond.
When a diamond's proportions are meticulously cut, light enters and exits the diamond through its table, creating optimal brilliance. Diamonds are typically cut in one of three styles: brilliant (with a mix of triangular and kite-shaped facets), step (consisting of rectangular facets), or mixed (a combination of brilliant and step cuts). Each cut is evaluated based on its appearance when viewed face-up, as well as its proportion balance, durability, polish, and symmetry.
COLOUR
The diamond colour scale is a universally recognised system developed by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), which serves as the industry standard for grading diamond colour. This scale assesses diamonds in a range from D (colourless) to Z (light yellow or brown). The scale primarily focuses on the presence and intensity of yellow or brown hues in white diamonds, as these are the most common colour tints found in nature.
Colourless
At the top of the colour scale, diamonds graded D, E, and F are considered colourless. These diamonds are exceptionally rare and highly valued due to their lack of discernible colour. They exhibit remarkable brilliance and are sought after for their pure and pristine appearance.
Near-Colourless
The next range on the colour scale, encompassing diamonds graded G, H, I, and J, falls under the category of near-colourless. These diamonds possess subtle traces of colour that are generally undetectable to the untrained eye. They still maintain an impressive level of brilliance and are popular choices for engagement rings and other jewellery.
Faint Yellow
Moving down the colour scale, diamonds graded K, L, and M exhibit a faint yellow tint. While these diamonds have a more noticeable colour than their higher-grade counterparts, they can still be an appealing choice, particularly for individuals who prefer a warmer hue in their diamond. Additionally, diamonds in this range can be more affordable, making them an attractive option for those with budget considerations.
Light Yellow to Brown
The lower end of the diamond colour scale, encompassing diamonds graded N through Z, showcases increasingly noticeable yellow or brown hues. These diamonds are referred to as ‘light yellow’ or ‘light brown.’ While they may not possess the colourless or near-colourless appearance desired by some, they can still possess their own unique charm and appeal. Some individuals find beauty in the warm tones and appreciate the distinct character they bring to a diamond.
CLARITY
Diamonds formed deep within the earth under intense pressure and heat often contain unique imperfections or natural birthmarks. These can manifest as inclusions, internal flaws such as crystals, feathers, or tiny mineral deposits, and blemishes, or external flaws like scratches or chips. Clarity grading evaluates the presence, size, location, and visibility of these imperfections.
Diamond clarity is assessed using a standardised grading scale established by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) and widely adopted by the industry. The scale ranges from Flawless (FL) to Included (I3), with several clarity grades in between:
Flawless (FL) and Internally Flawless (IF)
These grades represent the pinnacle of clarity. Flawless diamonds have no internal or external flaws visible under 10x magnification, while Internally Flawless diamonds have no internal flaws but may possess minor external blemishes.
Very, Very Slightly Included (VVS1 and VVS2)
Diamonds in this category have minuscule inclusions that are extremely difficult to detect even under magnification. VVS diamonds offer exceptional clarity and are highly valued.
Very Slightly Included (VS1 and VS2)
VS diamonds contain minor inclusions that are visible under 10x magnification but are not easily visible to the naked eye. These diamonds provide excellent value, as their inclusions are not typically noticeable to the casual observer.
Slightly Included (SI1 and SI2)
SI diamonds have noticeable inclusions under magnification and may sometimes be visible to the naked eye. However, the inclusions do not typically detract significantly from the diamond's overall beauty and can often be hidden by prongs or settings.
Included (I1, I2, and I3)
Diamonds in this category have inclusions that are visible to the naked eye, impacting their transparency and brilliance. While I-grade diamonds may possess noticeable flaws, they can still offer affordability and unique character.
CARAT
Carat, in relation to diamonds, refers to its weight rather than its size. A single diamond carat is equivalent to 0.2 grams, approximately the weight of a paperclip. The reason carat is the most familiar "C" is because it can vary in appearance from one diamond to another and from one shape to another.
While carat weight is often associated with size, it's important to note that bigger doesn't always mean better. The cut of a diamond can greatly influence its perceived size. In fact, a diamond with a higher carat weight but a poorly executed cut may appear smaller than a diamond with a lower carat weight but a superior cut.
When considering carat weight in your selection process, it ultimately comes down to personal preference, and it may also vary depending on the diamond's shape. When choosing the right carat weight, it's essential to keep in mind that your engagement ring should be versatile enough to complement both your extravagant wedding attire and your everyday jeans and t-shirt ensemble.
