DIAMONDS- THE FOUR "C's"

When picking out a diamond it is important to pay attention to the "Four C's." This includes cut, color, clarity, and carats.

Cut

The cut is what causes light to reflect in the diamond. A better cut allows more light to reflect. This is what makes the stone sparkle. The reflection is called brilliance and is most important in determining the cost of the stone. Cut can also be referring to the shape of the diamond. Diamonds come in many shapes. The most common shape is round. Square cuts are second, followed by the less popular oval cuts.

Color

Most people think diamonds are colorless. The common diamond contains hints of yellow, brown, or grey. A completely colorless diamond is very rare and expensive. There are also "fancy stones," which are diamonds that have noticeable color differences. These are also more expensive than the ones that have just a hint of color.

Clarity

Flawless diamonds have no blemishes or interior inclusions, which are mineral crystals trapped inside the diamond. The more irregularities, the cheaper the diamond is. All diamonds, except flawless ones have some irregularities. Value is also determined by whether or not the small blemishes effect the light reflection.

Carat

Carat is the least important of the four C's when it comes to the value of a diamond. A flawless and clear 3/4 carat diamond may be much more expensive then a common 1 carat diamond. If cut, color, and clarity are equal then a larger carat diamond will be more expensive.