We asked chatGPT, “What do the 4 Cs stand for? Wrong answers only” and it said this: Cash, Credit, Coupons, & Clout – because diamonds aren’t cheap!
And boy! Do we agree🤭.
But those are the wrong answers; the 4 Cs stand for cut, color, clarity, and carat.
They are the widely accepted standard of characteristics for a diamond that determine its quality and value.
While each ‘C’ plays a role, the cut is the most important factor in determining a diamond's brilliance and sparkle.
If you’ve been eyeing an engagement ring, a timeless pair of earrings, or a delicate everyday piece, understanding these factors can help you make the smartest (and most stunning) choice.
The 4 Cs Diamond Chart: What Do They Mean?
The 4 Cs are the DNA of a diamond. Each one plays a role in determining the beauty and value of the stone.
- Cut: This is the most important C. A well-cut diamond reflects light perfectly, creating that mesmerizing sparkle. Even a lower-carat diamond with an excellent cut can outshine a larger one with a poor cut.
- Color: Diamond colors are the natural tint or hue present in a Diamond. The colors are rated from D (colorless) to Z (light yellow). The closer they are to D, the higher the price. However, a G or H color diamond gives you a near-colorless look without the D price tag.
- Clarity: This C measures internal imperfections (or inclusions). Flawless diamonds are rare and costly, but most tiny inclusions aren’t visible to the naked eye.
- Carat: This is the most common C, and it refers to weight, not size. A 1-carat diamond can look different depending on the cut.
What Determines the Price of a Diamond?
Many factors determine a diamond’s price, including the 4 Cs, market trends, rarity, and diamond type.
There are three popular diamond types, they are:
- Natural Diamonds: These are diamonds formed over billions of years. They are more expensive.
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Lab-grown Diamonds: These are identical to natural diamonds in appearance but are 30-40% more affordable.
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Moissanite Diamonds: These kinds of diamonds are very budget-friendly and have a serious sparkle.
If you want luxury without the hefty price tag, our Moissanite diamond earrings offer premium craftsmanship at a fraction of the cost.
How to Cut a Diamond
As earlier established, the cut is the most important factor and there are many ways to do it:
- Round Brilliant Cut
Best for: Maximum brilliance and fire
Cut with: 58 facets to reflect the most light
Why?: This classic cut is mathematically designed for the most sparkle
- Princess Cut
Best for: A modern, geometric look with sharp angles
Cut with: A square or rectangular shape with 76 facets
Why?: Offers brilliance close to a round cut but with a contemporary edge
- Emerald Cut
Best for: A sophisticated, elongated shape that highlights clarity
Cut with: Step-cut facets for a hall-of-mirrors effect
Why?: Emphasizes clarity over sparkle for a sleek, luxurious look.
- Oval Cut
Best for: A unique twist on the round cut, making fingers look longer
Cut with: 56-58 facets
Why?: Offers brilliance with a flattering elongated shape
- Cushion Cut
Best for: A vintage, pillow-like sparkle
Cut with: Rounded corners and larger facets for a soft, romantic glow
Why?: A balance of brilliance and a classic, timeless feel
- Pear Cut
Best for: A unique, elegant shape that elongates the hand
Cut with: A mix of round and marquise cuts with a tapered point
Why?: Dramatic, eye-catching, and full of fire
- Marquise Cut
Best for: The largest-looking diamond per carat
Cut with: A long, pointed shape that enhances finger length
Why?: Maximizes surface area for a bigger look
How to Measure Diamonds Clarity
Diamond clarity is measured based on the presence of internal flaws (inclusions) and surface blemishes on your diamond.
The industry standard for grading clarity is set by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), using the following Clarity Scale:
💎 FL (Flawless): No inclusions or blemishes under 10x magnification (rarest & most expensive).
💎 IF (Internally Flawless): No inclusions, only minor surface blemishes.
💎 VVS1 & VVS2 (Very, Very Slightly Included): Inclusions so tiny even experts struggle to spot them under 10x magnification.
💎 VS1 & VS2 (Very Slightly Included): Small inclusions, difficult to see without magnification.
💎 SI1 & SI2 (Slightly Included): Noticeable inclusions visible under 10x magnification, sometimes to the naked eye.
💎 I1, I2, I3 (Included): Obvious inclusions that affect brilliance and durability, but they are very expensive.
To evaluate clarity, you can try out any of these options:
🔬 Under 10x Magnification: This is often when a gemologist examines the stone under a loupe or microscope.
👁️ Checking the Position & Size of Inclusions: Flaws near the center impact the brilliance of a diamond more than those near the edges.
✨ The Impact on Light Reflection: Finding fewer inclusions means the diamond has better sparkle and shine.
A higher clarity grade means a rarer, more valuable diamond, but many SI and VS diamonds still look flawless to the naked eye, making them great value choices.
And for everyday jewelry, VS2 or SI1 is a smart, stylish pick.
Diamond Color: Can You See the Difference?
Diamonds come in a stunning range of colors, generally classified into three categories:
Colorless Diamonds (D-F)
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Completely clear with no visible color.
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The most valuable and rare.
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Best for those who love a classic, bright white look.
Near-Colorless Diamonds (G-J)
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Slight warmth, but it still looks white in most settings.
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More budget-friendly than D-F diamonds.
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Works well with yellow or rose gold settings.
Faint to Light Yellow/Brown Diamonds (K-M)
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Noticeable warmth, especially in larger stones.
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Can create a soft, vintage aesthetic.
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Looks best in yellow or rose gold.
If you’re debating between an F and G color diamond, here’s the truth: Most people can’t tell the difference.
G and H diamonds look just as white as F but cost significantly less. Instead of paying extra for a D-F diamond, you can put that budget toward a better cut or setting.
Buying Your First Diamond
When it’s time for you to get your first diamond, prioritize cut, go slightly lower in color and clarity, and don’t obsess over carat weight.
If you’d like to purchase now, we have minimalist, high-quality Moissanite diamond earrings that are perfect for everyday wear. Explore our diamond collection today.