The Four Cs
Buyers Guide > Choosing Diamonds > The Four Cs
Clarity
This refers to the presence and location of certain identifying characteristics such as minerals or fractures. These are known as natures ‘fingerprints’. This affects the value of the diamond as there are very few flawless diamonds naturally found. Below are the five top clarity ratings on the diamond scale.
Carat
A diamond’s weight is measured in carats. 100 points is the equivalent of a carat, and is also referred to in fractions, for example 50 points being 1/2 a carat. The larger a diamond, the more heavy it is, and thus has a hgher carat. Larger diamonds occur more rarely in the natural world so this also adds to the value of a larger stone.
Colour
Many diamonds appear to be colourless, most contain subtle tones of colour. The nearer a diamond is to having no colour, the more valuable it is.
Cut
The only one of the 4C’s that is not determined by nature. It is the cutting of a rough stone into a polished diamond. The round cut is the most popular and produces the most powerful play of light.
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