The four Cs are carat, cut, colour, and Clarity; they represent the four main components of its beauty and structure. Each C is graded on a scale. The gradings help determine the value of a diamond and indicate its quality.
Carat doesn’t refer to a diamond’s size; it is used to measure diamonds and gemstones’ weight.
Clarity refers to how clear a diamond is and is based on how many inclusions are inside the diamond. Clarity is measured on a scale from IF (internally flawless) to I2 (included 2). The clearer a diamond is, the rarer and thus, the higher the price.
Colour refers to the colour of a diamond. A diamond is graded on how white or colourless it is. The scale starts from D to Z, with D being the most colourless and Z containing noticeable yellow or brown. Most diamonds we see in the market are in the D-I range.
Cut refers to the cut of a diamond and is the most overlooked. The GIA grades Cut on Ideal, Excellent, Very Good, Good, Fair and Poor. The cut is essential to a diamond’s real beauty; it’s crucial to review Cut carefully! The cut is the only contribution by man, while all others are naturally occurring. Cut can make or break the appearance of the stone. If a diamond has excellent proportions, symmetry and angles, it will have optimal light return and be very sparkly. If a diamond has poor angles, poor symmetry and poor polish, it will appear dull and dark.
The GIA grades clarity on the following scale:
- FL (Flawless)
- IF (Internally Flawless)
- VVS1 (Very, Very Slightly Included 1)
- VVS2 (Very, Very Slightly Included 2)
- VS1 (Very Slightly Included 1)
- VS2 (Very Slightly Included 2)
- SI1 (Slightly Included 1)
- SI2 (Slightly Included 2)
- I1 (Inclusions 1)
- I2 (Inclusions 2)