There are several characteristics that work in sync to create a diamond's overall appearance and durability, and four of those factors are often lumped together. Called the Four Cs, they include diamond color, clarity, cut and carat weight. Each of the Four Cs is important, but there's no set "recipe" for the perfect diamond. And although the topics might seem overwhelming at first, if you work through the information in a step-by-step way you'll find it won't take long to learn how to combine the Four Cs to find a diamond that suits your style, your needs and your budget.
Diamond Color Essentials
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Most shoppers are looking for a "white" diamond, in other words, a colorless diamond, but the larger the gem, the more expensive it is to buy a truly colorless stone. And honestly, you don't need a completely colorless diamond, because the grades below that level are quite nice, thank you. But you do need to understand color qualities in order to make important decisions, and there are some special considerations that play a part in your final choice, such as color enhancements (some are permanent, some are not so permanent). Another related consideration is diamond fluorescence, a characteristic that makes diamonds shift color in different lights. Start your diamond search by exploring diamond color.
Diamond Clarity Is a Biggie
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A perfect diamond with perfect clarity, or clearness, is rare, but the good news is that most flaws that exist in jewelry grade diamonds can't be seen without looking at the gemstones through a jeweler's magnifying loupe. That doesn't mean you should ignore clarity, because there are several characteristics that affect it, and a some of those can have an impact on a diamond's durability. Become familiar with diamond clarity and all of the terms associated with it so that you can ask the right questions (and understand the answers) when you shop for a loose diamond, a diamond ring or other diamond jewelry.
Don't Forget Diamond Cut
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Did you know that a diamond's cut does not refer to its shape? When gemologists say "cut," they are talking about a gemstone's proportions -- its depth and width and the uniformity of its facets -- all characteristics that control brilliance, durability and other qualities you're looking for in a diamond.
Diamond Carat Weight Basics
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Carat weight is another diamond characteristic that you can juggle with the rest of the Four Cs in order to get the look and quality you want. Carat weight affects a diamond's appearance and its price, making it an element you should definitely understand before you buy. As you explore the topic, you'll discover money-saving ways to make a diamond look larger than its true weight.
Let's Talk Fancy Color Diamonds
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Fancy color diamonds have their own special set of Four Cs. And since they're a little different than the Four Cs of white diamonds, start your journey here if a colorful diamond is on your shopping list.
