The 4 C of a Diamond are considered common knowledge when it comes to Diamond dealer or expert but what are they exactly? Let’s find out
CUT
When someone refers to the cut of a diamond, they are referring to the quality of the gem’s facets, small mirror-like surfaces. Diamonds that are well cut will reflect light from the inside and around the facets to create a sparkle. As such, the more mathematically proportionate the facets are, the more light that will be reflected and the more brilliant the shine. The cut is the only one of the 4 Cs of diamond quality that is directly influenced by human intervention. However, it is also widely believed to be the most important. Well-cut diamonds will be awarded a higher quality rating and, as such, will be more valuable than larger stones or gems that have a better colour but a lower quality cut.
CARAT
The carat refers to the weight of a diamond, and the term is derived from the word carob because the weight of diamonds in the ancient world was measured using carob seeds. One carat equals 200 milligrammes.
Larger diamonds are relatively rare; as such, large diamonds can be extremely valuable. In the event the cut, clarity, and colour of two diamonds are otherwise equal, the heavier diamond will have the highest market value.
COLOUR
White or colourless diamonds naturally occur in different shades. The colour of a diamond is graded using a scale that ranges from D (colourless) to Z (light colour). The differences between each shade in this scale can be barely detectable. As such, graders evaluate the colour in controlled lighting conditions and compare each diamond against a master to ensure colour-grading accuracy.
In addition to white or colourless diamonds, other coloured fancies are also available. These gems may be blue, black, green, pink, or yellow-orange. Coloured diamonds are rare and extremely valuable. The colour of these gems is graded according to the colour intensity of the diamond.
CLARITY
Diamonds often include ‘inclusions,’ naturally occurring flaws such as uncrystallised carbon, minute fractures, or mineral deposits. These were formed deep in the diamond as it evolved and cannot be removed. The clarity component of a diamond refers to how many of these inclusions are contained within it. Inclusions are typically undetectable by the human eye. However, they are important because they impact how the diamond reflects and refracts light. To assess the clarity of a diamond, the grader will examine it under 10x magnification and subsequently assign a clarity grade that ranges from F (flawless) through to I (included). In addition to this grading, the report will also specify the location of any inclusions.
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