The 4Cs: Everything you need to know about Diamonds
Whether you are considering purchasing a lab-grown diamond or a mined one, it’s important to understand the 4Cs. These four factors – Cut, Colour, Clarity and Carat – determine a diamond’s quality, value and overall appearance. Knowing how these characteristics impact a diamond will help you make an informed decision and ensure you get the best diamond for your budget and preferences.
The Cut: the key to a diamond’s sparkle
When choosing a diamond, the cut is often considered to be the most important factor. This is because it directly affects the diamond’s brilliance – or how much it sparkles when light hits it.
A well-cut diamond reflects the light beautifully, creating that signature sparkle we all love. In contrast, a poorly cut diamond will appear dull or dark. This is because the light escapes through the sides of the diamond rather than being reflected back into the eye.
To get the most brilliance, look for a diamond with an “Excellent” or “Ideal” cut grade. These diamonds are expertly crafted to give you that wow factor.
Colour: the clearer, the better
Diamonds naturally occur in a range of colours, from completely colourless to subtle hints of yellow or brown. The less colour a diamond has, the rarer and more valuable it is. This is because colourless diamonds allow more light to pass through, enhancing their brilliance.
When selecting a diamond, their colour is graded on a D-to-Z scale, with D being colourless and Z showing a visible brown tint. If you are looking for that icy white hue, consider a diamond that is graded D, E or F, as these offer the brightest appearance.
Clarity: the presence of imperfections
Clarity refers to the presence of imperfections, such as blemishes and inclusions, that naturally occur during a diamond’s formation. The fewer the imperfections a diamond has, the higher its clarity grade.
Diamond clarity is graded on a scale from Flawless (FL), through Very Slightly Included (VS), to Included (I). If you’re seeking a balance of quality and value, consider a diamond that is graded VS1 or VS2 as these usually have very minor imperfections that are not visible to the naked eye.
Carat: how heavy a diamond is
Carat refers to the diamond’s weight, not its size. The more carats a diamond has, the larger and generally more expensive the diamond will be.
However, it’s important to note that carat weight alone doesn’t determine a diamonds’ value. A well-cut diamond can appear larger than a poorly cut diamond with the same carat weight, meaning the overall value is influenced by the other 3 factors.
Tip: If you’re on a budget but want to treat yourself or a loved one to diamond jewellery, consider lab-grown diamonds. These typically offer higher grades at lower costs compared to mined diamonds, allowing you to get more value for your money.
Choosing the right diamond can feel overwhelming, but whether you choose a mined or a lab-grown diamond, understanding the 4Cs will help you make the best decision based on your preferences and budget. With the right knowledge, you can confidently select a diamond that fits your needs and shines brilliantly.