The complete 4Cs guide to diamonds: How to choose the perfect diamond

When it comes to choosing a diamond, the process can seem complex, especially due to the large number of factors that influence the quality and value of a gemstone. However, the diamond industry has standardized the evaluation of diamonds using a system based on four key characteristics, known as the 4Cs: Clarity, Color, Carat and Cut.

In this guide, we'll explain each of these characteristics, giving you the information you need to understand how they affect a diamond's appearance and price, so you can make the perfect choice when buying your luxury jewelry from Kara Diamond.

1. Diamond Clarity (Clarity)
The clarity of a diamond refers to the presence of internal imperfections (inclusions) or external imperfections (blemishes). These imperfections are often the result of the diamond's natural formation process and can range from small dots or lines invisible to the naked eye to significant visible flaws. Clarity is assessed on a scale that takes into account the size, type, position and number of these imperfections.

How is clarity assessed?
The diamond clarity scale is divided into the following categories:

Flawless (FL): Diamonds with this grade have no observable internal or external imperfections below 10x magnification. They are extremely rare and therefore very expensive.

Internally Flawless (IF): These diamonds have no internal imperfections, but may have small surface flaws that are only visible under 10x magnification. They are also very rare and expensive.

Very, Very Slightly Included (VVS1 and VVS2): Very small imperfections, almost impossible to see even under magnification. These diamonds are considered of excellent quality and are highly prized.

Very Slightly Included (VS1 and VS2): Slightly visible imperfections under 10x magnification, but almost impossible to see with the naked eye. These diamonds are very high quality and are often a popular choice.

Slightly Included (SI1 and SI2): These diamonds have imperfections visible under 10x magnification and in some cases may be visible to the naked eye. However, they do not significantly affect the overall appearance of the diamond.

Included (I1, I2, and I3): These diamonds have imperfections that are obvious to the naked eye and may affect the appearance or durability of the stone. They are usually the most affordable in terms of price.

Tips for choosing the perfect clarity:
If you want a diamond with perfect clarity, a good choice are diamonds in the FL or IF categories. However, most diamond shoppers prefer to choose VVS or VS because these diamonds are almost as visually clear, but at a more affordable price.

2. Diamond Color (Color)
The color of the diamond is another essential factor that influences its beauty and value. Diamonds are not always colorless. Some have a subtle shade of yellow or brown, and the more pronounced the color, the less valuable the diamond. The color of a diamond is graded on a scale from D (colorless) to Z (yellow or brown).

How is the color graded?
D - F (Colorless): Diamonds in this range are considered the most valuable and are completely devoid of visible color. They are the most expensive and the rarest.

G - J (Slightly Colored): Diamonds in this range may appear colorless at first glance, but under a stronger light or with careful evaluation, a slight yellow tint can be seen. They are excellent diamonds in terms of value for money.

K - M (Medium in color): These diamonds have a more noticeable yellow or brown tint, and their price is much lower compared to colorless diamonds.

N - Z (Colored): Diamonds in this range have a noticeable yellow or brown hue. These diamonds are usually the most affordable, but have a less desirable appearance.

Tips for choosing the ideal color:
If you want a truly brilliant-cut diamond with no visible shades of color, opting for a diamond in the D-F range is ideal. If your budget is more limited, diamonds in the G-J range offer excellent value, being almost colorless with a significant price difference.

3. Carat Weight
The carat (ct) refers to the weight of the diamond and is one of the most obvious characteristics that influence the price of the stone. In general, larger diamonds are more valuable, but there are other factors, such as cut quality and clarity, that influence the price.

How is a carat valued?
One carat is equivalent to 0.2 grams. However, diamond weight is not the only factor that matters. Larger carat diamonds are rarer and therefore more expensive. Also, two diamonds of the same carat weight can vary greatly in price, depending on the other 3C.

Tips for choosing the ideal carat:
For those who want a large diamond, a 1-carat stone is symbolic and an industry standard. If you want a large diamond but don't want to spend an exorbitant amount, a 0.9 carat diamond can look almost as impressive to the naked eye, but will be much more affordable.

4. Diamond Cut
The cut is perhaps the most important of the 4Cs, as it directly influences the brilliance of the diamond. Cut refers to the way the diamond has been shaped from the rough crystals and its angles and proportions. A well-cut cut allows the diamond to reflect light in a spectacular way, while a poor cut can make the diamond appear dull.

How is the cut evaluated?
The cut of a diamond is graded on a scale from Fair to Excellent:

Excellent: Excellent cut diamonds are the best cut diamonds and reflect light in an amazing way, with a brilliance and fire.

Very Good: These diamonds are almost as brilliant as excellent cut diamonds, with a slight difference in brilliance.

Good: Good cut diamonds offer a decent brilliance, but not as intense as those in the higher grades.

Fair and Poor: Diamonds with less good cuts do not reflect light effectively and can appear dull or lifeless.

Tips for choosing the perfect cut:
If you want your diamond to be truly spectacular, choose a diamond with an excellent cut. Even a small diamond can look stunning if the cut is top quality. Conversely, diamonds with weaker cuts can look much less brilliant, even if they have a heavier weight.

Conclusion: Choosing the perfect diamond.
Each of the 4Cs plays an important role in defining a quality diamond, and the ideal choice depends on your personal preferences and available budget. At Kara Diamond, we offer a wide selection of carefully curated diamonds so you can choose exactly what you want. From diamonds with perfect clarity, to excellent cuts and stunning colors, we're here to help you find the perfect piece of jewelry for you or your loved one.

Whatever your choice, a diamond from Kara Diamond will remain a priceless piece in your jewelry collection, a symbol of love and sophistication.