THE 4 CS OF DIAMONDS: A COMPLETE GUIDE TO DIAMOND GRADING
When purchasing a diamond, whether natural or lab-grown, understanding the 4 Cs—Color, Clarity, Carat, and Cut — is essential. Diamonds are graded in each of these areas. Developed by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), the 4 Cs provide a standardized way to evaluate diamonds worldwide. Taken collectively, those grades determine a diamond’s value.
COLOR
Diamond color measures the Absence/ Presence of hue, with D (colorless) being the rarest and most valuable, grading down to Z (noticeable light yellow/brown hues) on the GIA color scale. Diamonds beyond this scale, such as vivid pinks or blues, are classified as fancy colored and graded differently.
Color visibility increases with carat weight, shape, and setting:
- Larger diamonds reveal more color.
- Brilliant cuts (round, oval) mask color better than step-cuts (emerald, asscher).
- White gold settings can make near-colorless diamonds appear whiter.
Most diamonds have subtle yellow or brown undertones, with D–F grades considered colorless and G–J near-colorless. The greater the presence of color, the lower the value—except in fancy colored diamonds, which are prized for their hues.
CLARITY
Clarity measures a diamond’s purity by evaluating internal inclusions and surface blemishes. Flawless diamonds are rare, but most inclusions are microscopic and do not affect beauty.
The GIA Clarity Scale ranges from Flawless (FL) to Included (I), with clarity impacting how well a diamond interacts with light. Transparency and brilliance depend on the size, number, and placement of inclusions—those under the table (top facet) are more visible than ones near the girdle (edge).
Since clarity affects a diamond’s sparkle, evaluating stones individually rather than relying solely on certification ensures the best balance of brilliance and value.
CARAT
Carat weight is the most objective grade of the 4Cs. Carat measures a diamond’s weight, with 1 carat = 200 mg (about the weight of a paperclip). Higher carat diamonds are rarer and thus, more valuable. For better value, consider diamonds just below popular sizes (e.g., 0.9ct instead of 1.0ct), as price jumps significantly at round carat milestones with little visual difference.
Larger diamonds enhance brilliance by reflecting more light, thereby maximizing Visual impact. However, size perception varies based on cut and shape as well. Elongated Shapes such as Marquise and Oval appear larger for their Carat Weight. Also well-cut diamonds can appear larger than poorly cut ones of the same weight, making weight distribution just as important as size.
CUT
Cut is the most important factor in a diamond’s brilliance and sparkle. Not to be confused with shape, which refers to a diamond’s outline (e.g., oval, cushion, emerald); Cut determines how well a diamond’s facets interact with light, enhancing its fire, scintillation, and overall beauty.
The GIA grades cut from Excellent to Poor, with an Excellent cut reflecting nearly all light, thereby delivering an exceptional brilliance, while a Poor cut allows light to escape, making the diamond appear dull.
Unlike other characteristics formed naturally, cut quality depends on the precision of the cutter in achieving the perfect proportions, symmetry, and polish. A masterfully cut diamond enhances the perceived size and beauty, making cut quality crucial in selecting the perfect stone.
Finding Your Perfect Diamond:
When purchasing Mined Diamonds with other Jewellers, it is important to remember that Balancing the 4 C’s with your personal preferences is key to selecting the perfect diamond.
- Prioritize What Matters Most: Learn how cut, color, clarity, and carat affect a diamond’s beauty and value. If brilliance is your priority, focus on cut quality. If size matters most, consider compromising on clarity or color for a larger carat weight.
- Maximize Value: Certain grade combinations offer exceptional
quality without premium pricing. - Color: H-J diamonds appear nearly colorless to the naked eye.
- Clarity: VS2-SI1 grades often look flawless without the cost of higher clarity ratings.
- Choose Your Shape: Round diamonds offer the most brilliance but come at a premium. Fancy shapes like oval, cushion, and emerald provide unique appeal and better value.
- Verify Certification: Always choose diamonds certified by Reputed third party Labs such as GIA, IGI, HRD, or GCAL to ensure authenticity and quality.
The Janvary Promise – Confidence in Every Diamond
At Janvary, we believe Purchasing a diamond should be exciting, not intimidating. And so, we have made the process effortless by offering only
the highest-quality lab-grown diamonds—so you never have to compromise.
- Quality: Every Janvary piece features D-F color, VVS-VS clarity diamonds, a grade so high that it is a standard met by only the top 1% of mined diamonds worldwide.
- Authenticity: Each creation is hallmarked, certified, and backed by our Lifetime Buyback Promise, ensuring both authenticity and long-
term value. - Conscious: Our Lab-Grown Diamonds are consciously created, offering the same stunning beauty as mined diamonds without the environmental or ethical concerns
With Janvary, luxury is Exceptional, Conscious and comes with complete peace of mind.
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