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4 C's

The 4 C’s of Diamond Quality: (From Gemological Institute of America)

GIA created the 4C’s as a universal method for establishing the quality of any diamond, anywhere in the world. The 4C’s mean diamond quality can be communicated in a universal language, and diamond- buying consumers can know exactly what they are about to purchase.

Color: The color evaluation of the most gem- quality diamonds is based on the absence of color.

Clarity: Natural diamonds are the result the result of carbon exposed to tremendous heat and pressure deep in the earth. This process can result in a variety of internal characteristics called “inclusions” and external characteristics called “blemishes”.

Cut: Diamonds are renowned for their ability to transmit light and sparkle so intensely.

Cut is often confused with the shape of the diamond.

Cut Grading Scale evaluates 7 components. Brightness, Fire, and Scintillation consider the diamond’s overall face-up appearance. Weight Ratio, Durability, Polish, and Symmetry assess a diamond’s design and craftsmanship.

Carat Weight: The measurement of how much a diamond weighs.

Diamond price increases with carat weight because larger diamonds are rarer and more desirable. But two diamonds of equal carat weight can have different very different values (and prices) depending on the other C’s (clarity, color, and cut).

The weight of a diamond below one carat can also be referred to as points. (For example, a diamond that weighs 0.25 carats can also be called a 25 pointer.)