The "4 Cs" of Diamonds
One of the most common terms associated with diamond jewelry is the “four Cs,” Carat, Color, Clarity and Cut. These four characteristics will help you determine the type of stone you want to purchase, its overall desirability, and potentially, its quality. Be sure you understand the four Cs and how they relate to the stones you’re evaluating online before you find diamonds now and make a purchase.
Carat
Of all of the characteristics of diamonds that consumers review, carat weight may be the most critical. Carat weight is quite literally how much the diamond weighs, which is why it's the most important factor of your purchase. A carat equals approximately one-fifth of a gram - or .20 gm. So 5 carats is 1.0 gram. Carats are also measured in a points system with 100 points to a carat - like pennies. So if you hear "50 points" that's half a carat; "20 points" is one-fifth of a carat. The carat weight of a diamond will affect its value - probably as much as 20 percent in some cases. Of course, other elements of the "four Cs" will factor into a diamond's quality and retail value. But in general, the bigger the carat weight, the bigger the price tag.
Color
While we generally think of diamonds as having no color, that isn't the case. In fact, diamonds come in a variety of colors, including pink, blue, green, and yellow. The closer to colorless a diamond is, the higher its value. But very rare diamonds in other colors can also be quite valuable. The GIA (Gemological Institute of America) rated diamonds on a scale that ranges from D (colorless) to Z (light yellow). In general, consumers select diamonds that range from D to J - which are considered "colorless" and "near-colorless." The naked eye might not even be able to detect a difference from one letter to another, so keep this in mind as you evaluate stones and their value.
Clarity
The third of the "four Cs," clarity applies to the physical appearance of a stone. Think of clarity as a microscopic search for blemishes or imperfections - likely invisible to the naked eye. A diamond's clarity rating is established by careful examination under intense magnification and lighting. The GIA has set 11 grades of clarity that range from Flawless to Included. Most consumers can't identify imperfections independently until a diamond is rated from Slightly Included to Included. The type of cut you select - discussed below - can affect how the clarity will be evident For example, an emerald cut will make some features more evident to the naked eye, where a round brilliant cut might not. Keep this in mind as you evaluate stones.
Cut
While many people think that cut refers to a diamond's shape, it actually refers to its proportion and finish. A diamond that is properly finished will sparkle more than one that is not. Therefore, cut relates to a stone's overall quality and brilliance. Most diamonds are cut with 58 facets, or individual flat surfaces, that refract and reflect light. When you take a stone and then shape it into a princess or oval design, it can have an impact on the cut. Keep this in mind as you shop - some stones are inherently better for certain shapes.
