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Diamond 4c's

The GIA 4Cs of diamond quality will help you learn how to buy a diamond. This basic knowledge will not only unlock the mystery of a diamond’s quality, it will also help you understand a diamond’s value and price.

Carat

Refers to a diamond’s weight. Generally speaking, the higher the carat weight, the more expensive the stone. Two diamonds of equal carat weight, however, can have very different quality and price when the other three Cs are considered.

Clarity

Measures the amount, size and placement of internal ‘inclusions,’ and external ‘blemishes.’ Grades run from ‘Flawless,’ with virtually no imperfections, to ‘Included,’ which contain a significant number of imperfections.

Color

In most diamonds, the term actually refers to the absence of color. The less color in the stone, the more desirable and valuable it is. Some of these differences are not visible to the naked eye, but directly impact the overall quality and price of the stone.

Cut

Does not refer to a diamond’s shape, but to the proportion and arrangement of its facets and the quality of workmanship. The amount of brilliance, sparkle and fire in a diamond is determined by cut. Grades range from ‘Excellent’ to ‘Poor.’

Round Brilliant

The most popular diamond shape, round-cut diamonds are cut to have 58 facets. Used frequently in earrings, pendants, and solitaire engagement rings, virtually cut as a round brilliant, the diamond’s angles help to enhance its fire and brilliance.

Princess

Traditionally squares but sometimes rectangles, princess-cut diamonds always have four pointed corners. This dynamic shape has the extraordinary ability to look either modern or vintage and creates the illusion of a larger diamond. This shape is quite a popular engagement ring choice. When choosing this cut, make sure all sides are parallel, and choose a prong setting that will protect the corners.

Cushion

Cushion-cut diamonds (also known as pillow-cut diamonds) have rounded corners and larger facets to increase their brilliance. These larger facets can show inclusions more easily than some other shapes, so if you choose a lower clarity grade, be sure to review the clarity plot on the diamond certificate. Cushion-shaped diamonds are available in shapes ranging from square to rectangular

Oval

These rounded diamonds are longer than they are wide. And being a popular choice, particularly if you’d like your finger to appear longer and slimmer. Like round diamonds, ovals cut in the brilliant style exhibit a similar fire and brilliance.

Pear

Resembling a teardrop, the pear shape blends the best of the round and marquise shapes. Rounded shoulders and wings create an appealing outline, but symmetry is key for this shape. Wear the point out toward the tip of your fingers for a slimming effect on your hand.

Marquise

This cut is similar to an oval but with pointed ends, creating an illusion that the diamond is larger in size. Turned on its side, it looks like a woman’s slightly parted lips. Watch for symmetry in marquise-shaped diamonds even the slightest difference can make a diamond appear uneven and unbalanced.

Emerald

These rectangles with step cuts on the sides and a large, flat top are ideal for those who prefer classic jewelry. Always look for parallel sides and even corners with this shape.

Asscher

These diamonds are cut similarly to emerald-cut diamonds, except they are square. The step-cut facets give it a mirror-like appearance, which means that clarity will be an important quality for the diamond since inclusions are highly visible.

Heart

This eternally romantic and feminine shape is not as prevalent as you might expect, making it all the more special. Heart-shaped diamonds should have two symmetrical halves with a distinct cleft and even wings and lobes.

Trillion

These are triangular diamonds with three equal sides that can be curved or straight. This shape is a truly unique and adventurous choice for a solitaire. Most triangle-shaped are cut in brilliant style. Inclusions tend to be easier to see with this shape, so look for a store of high clarity.