Introduction
When shopping for a diamond engagement ring, understanding the 4Cs is essential. These four characteristics—Cut, Color, Clarity, and Carat—determine a diamond’s quality, beauty, and value.
The 4Cs Explained
Cut: The Sparkle Factor
The cut is arguably the most important factor affecting a diamond’s beauty. A well-cut diamond reflects light beautifully, creating that coveted sparkle.
Cut grades range from:
- Excellent/Ideal
- Very Good
- Good
- Fair
- Poor
Color: The Presence of Hue
Diamond color actually refers to the absence of color. The most valuable diamonds are completely colorless.
| Grade | Description |
|---|---|
| D-F | Colorless |
| G-J | Near Colorless |
| K-M | Faint Yellow |
| N-R | Very Light Yellow |
| S-Z | Light Yellow |
Clarity: Internal Characteristics
Clarity measures the presence of inclusions (internal) and blemishes (external).
Clarity grades:
- FL (Flawless)
- IF (Internally Flawless)
- VVS1/VVS2 (Very Very Slightly Included)
- VS1/VS2 (Very Slightly Included)
- SI1/SI2 (Slightly Included)
- I1/I2/I3 (Included)
Carat: The Weight
Carat refers to the diamond’s weight, not its size. One carat equals 200 milligrams.
Finding the Right Balance
The key to finding the perfect diamond is balancing all four Cs within your budget:
- Start with cut - This has the biggest impact on beauty
- Choose color based on setting - G-H looks colorless in most settings
- Select clarity wisely - VS2 or SI1 are often “eye-clean”
- Adjust carat to fit budget - Consider slightly under popular weights (0.9 vs 1.0)
Try the Brilliance Chase mini-game
Catch clean light, dodge inclusions, and keep the brilliance meter alive while you balance the 4Cs in motion.
Conclusion
Understanding the 4Cs empowers you to make an informed decision. Remember, there’s no single “perfect” combination—the best diamond is one that fits your preferences and budget while maximizing beauty.
Next Steps
- Explore our Diamond Database to compare options
- Take our Diamond Quiz to test your knowledge
- Read about Popular Ring Settings