When it comes to purchasing a Diamond you often hear the words “The 4 C’s”. Below you will find the attributes of the 4 C’s (Carat, Clarity, Color, and Cut) and in their order of importance in terms of value.

 

Carat Weight

 

Carat weight accounts for roughly 62% of the value of a Diamond.

GIA Clarity Scale

Clarity accounts for roughly 14-18% of the value of a Diamond. 

 Natural diamonds are the result of carbon exposed to tremendous heat and pressure deep in the earth. This sometimes results in internal characteristics called ‘inclusions’ and external ‘blemishes.’ Clarity is based on the number size and position of these characteristics and how they affect the overall appearance of the stone.

GIA Color Scale

Color accounts for roughly 10-14% of the value of a Diamond.

The diamond color evaluation of most-gem quality diamonds is actually based on the absence of color. A structurally perfect diamond has no hue. GIA's D-Z diamond color-grading system measures degrees of colorlessness by comparing a stone under controlled lighting and precise viewing conditions to a masterstone of established color value. 

Shape

Diamonds are renowned for their ability to transmit light and sparkle so intensely. Many often think of a diamond’s cut as it’s shape but a diamond’s cut grade is really about how well a diamond’s facets interact with light.

Cut

Cut accounts for roughly 4-8% of the value of a Diamond.

Did you know, most Round Brilliant Cut Diamonds have a Table percentage between 55% - 65%?

Cut Correction Factor

Fluorescence Deduction Factor

Preferred Length-to-width Ratio Ranges For Common Fancy Cut Diamonds

Parameters For Excellent Cut Grade Round Brilliant Cut Diamonds

NOTE: While a Diamond within these parameters is usually given a Cut Grade of Excellent, some Table Percentages, Crown Angles, and Pavilion Angles within the ranges for Excellent may combine to negatively affect the grade and cause it to be given a Cut Grade of Very Good or lower.