About Diamonds - The Famous 4Cs

Diamonds are one of the most sought-after gemstones in the world. Their beauty and rarity make them a symbol of luxury and elegance. But have you ever wondered what makes a diamond truly valuable? In the world of diamonds, experts use a grading system known as the 4Cs to evaluate a diamond's quality. In this blog post, we will explore the 4Cs of diamonds and how they contribute to a diamond's overall value.

What are the 4Cs?

The 4Cs stand for Colour, Clarity, Cut, and Carat Weight. These four characteristics are used to assess a diamond's quality and determine its worth. Let's take a closer look at each of these factors:

Colour

When it comes to diamonds, colour refers to the presence of any tint in the stone. The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) grades diamond colour on a scale from D (colourless) to Z (light yellow or brown). The closer a diamond is to colourless, the more valuable it is considered to be. Even the slightest variation in colour can significantly impact a diamond's price. We recommend D, E and F for that colourless appearance.

Clarity

Clarity measures the presence of any internal or external flaws, known as inclusions and blemishes, respectively. The GIA grades diamond clarity on a scale ranging from Flawless (no inclusions or blemishes visible under 10x magnification) to Included (inclusions and/or blemishes visible to the naked eye). Diamonds with higher clarity grades are rarer and more valuable.

Cut

The cut of a diamond refers to how well it has been shaped and faceted. It is often considered the most crucial factor in determining a diamond's beauty. A well-cut diamond reflects light in a way that maximizes its brilliance and sparkle. The GIA grades diamond cut on a scale from Excellent to Poor. Diamonds with excellent cut grades are highly prized for their exceptional brilliance.

Carat Weight

Carat weight is simply a measure of a diamond's size. One carat is equivalent to 200 milligrams. Larger diamonds are generally more valuable, but carat weight alone does not determine a diamond's worth. The other 3Cs (colour, clarity, and cut) also play a significant role in determining a diamond's value. Most of our customers order engagement rings between 1 and 3 carats of diamonds.

It's important to note that the 4Cs are interrelated, and each factor affects the others. For example, a well-cut diamond may appear larger than its carat weight suggests, or a diamond with higher clarity may appear more colourless. Therefore, it is crucial to consider all four factors when evaluating a diamond's quality.

Now that you understand the 4Cs of diamonds, you can make an informed decision when purchasing a diamond. Whether you're looking for an engagement ring or a special piece of jewellery, knowing the 4Cs will help you choose a diamond that suits your preferences and budget. Remember, each diamond is unique, and finding the perfect balance of the 4Cs is the key to finding a truly exceptional diamond.

Nnamdi The Jeweller's Something Blue collection allows you to choose your own special diamond certified by the GIA or IGI.