1. Cut

The cut of a diamond doesn’t refer to its shape (such as round, oval, or princess) but rather how well it has been crafted to interact with light. A well-cut diamond reflects light beautifully, resulting in that signature sparkle and brilliance that diamonds are known for. Cuts are graded from Excellent to Poor. An excellent cut maximizes the diamond’s brilliance, while a poor cut can make even a high-quality diamond appear dull. Among the Four Cs, cut is often considered the most critical factor in a diamond’s beauty.

2. Color

Diamonds are graded on a color scale that ranges from D (completely colorless) to Z (noticeable yellow or brown tint). Colorless diamonds, graded D to F, are the most sought-after and rarest, as they allow the most light to pass through, creating an exceptional sparkle. However, slightly lower color grades (G to J) may still appear colorless to the naked eye, offering a more budget-friendly option without compromising beauty. The less color a diamond has, the higher its value.

3. Clarity

Clarity refers to the presence of internal flaws (inclusions) or external blemishes on a diamond. These imperfections are usually not visible to the naked eye but can affect the overall brilliance and value of the stone.

Clarity is graded on a scale from Flawless (F) to Included (I). Flawless diamonds are extremely rare and expensive, but most diamonds fall into the range of Very Slightly Included (VS1 and VS2) or Slightly Included (SI1 and SI2), where inclusions are still minimal and not noticeable without magnification. When choosing clarity, it’s essential to balance beauty with budget since minor inclusions often don’t detract from the diamond’s appearance.

4. Carat

Carat refers to the weight of the diamond. While many people associate carat size with the overall quality of a diamond, carat is simply a measurement of its weight. Larger diamonds are rarer, making them more expensive, but bigger isn’t always better. A smaller diamond with a high-quality cut, color, and clarity can outshine a larger one with lower ratings in those categories. When choosing carat size, consider your personal preference and budget, as well as the overall balance between the Four Cs.