Explaining the 4 Cs of Diamonds

If you are considering purchasing diamond jewelry, you may already be thinking about the piece you want or the style it fits.  But in addition to the style, setting or overall design of your diamond piece, you should also consider the qualities of the stone itself. The cut, color, clarity and carat weight on a diamond are qualities that set each stone apart and can affect its appearance and value.

• Cut: The cut is what gives a diamond its own unique sparkle. A diamond’s cut is measured by brilliance, which describes the amount of light reflected, and scintillation, which is how the stone is able to catch the light. A well-cut stone is one that works with a diamond’s unique facets to demonstrate its brilliance.
• Color: The color classification of a white diamond refers to the presence or absence of color in the stone. Colorless diamonds are classified as D, E, and F. Stones that are almost colorless are labeled G, H, I, and J. Those diamonds with a hint of yellow or brown are described as K, L, and M. Stones with a prevalent yellow or brown tint are N, O, P, Q, and R.  Yellow stones are S, T, U, V, W, X, Y, and Z.
• Clarity: Clarity refers to the lack of markings on a stone. Clarity is measured on a scale that includes Flawless (FL), which is a virtually perfect stone. Diamonds with fewer inclusions are rarer and more expensive.  Internally Flawless (IF) means that the inclusions can only be seen under powerful magnification. Very, Very Slightly Included (VVS1 and VVS2), Very Slightly Included (VS1 and VS2), Slightly Included (Sl1 and Sl1), and Included (I1, I2, I3) are more common and generally less expensive.
• Carat: In diamond lingo, one carat is 0.2 grams. Carats are classified on a scale with 100 points. If you are looking at a diamond that has a 50-point classification, for example, it actually weighs 0.50 carats. Carat measurements are extremely specific because they can drastically affect the price of the diamond.

For more information about or to shop for diamond jewelry, contact Zadok Jewelers. Our Houston store is family-owned and committed to providing unparalleled quality, exceptional value and personal attention to our clients. For more information, visit us online or call us today at (713) 960-8950.