The 4Cs are for everyone.
The 4Cs are the industry standard for evaluating diamond quality. They are also the best way to understand your diamond, and to ensure accuracy in the evaluation of your diamond’s unique characteristics. While choosing a diamond is a very personal decision, evaluating a diamond should always be a matter of precision. At GIA, we are incredibly proud that our 4Cs of diamond quality continue to educate the diamond industry and most importantly, protect diamond consumers everywhere.
Diamond Color
Often when we talk about diamond color, we are actually talking about the absence of color. As subtle as color distinction may be, color variations from the most obvious to subdued can drastically alter diamond quality and price. Luckily, diamond color isn’t a matter of opinion. Proper color evaluation is a matter of expertise.
Diamond Clarity
Every diamond is unique. Clarity characteristics are created when small crystals are trapped in the diamond. As they grow, pressure and stress can cause inclusions and blemishes—sometimes only visible under a microscope. The clarity of a diamond is based on the size, position, visibility and number of these inclusions or blemishes.
Diamond Cut
One of a diamond’s most recognizable characteristics, diamond cut, refers to how a diamond interacts with light. When you hear words like Brightness, Scintillation and Fire, they describe how masterfully a diamond is cut. Cut also describes the overall design of a diamond, including the arrangement and proportions of the diamond’s facets. There are a nearly unlimited combination of proportions possible, and all of them impact the interaction with light.
Diamond Carat Weight
Carat weight describes the weight, not the size, of a diamond. The term carat weight comes from carob seeds and has been in use since the 1500s. Today, a carat is a standard milligram measurement of weight. A metric Carat is defined as 200 milligrams and used globally.
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The original source for diamond grading.
For nearly 100 years, GIA has helped advance the global diamond industry through innovation and education. A GIA Diamond Grading Report is more than the standard in diamond evaluation—it is the internationally trusted source for diamond quality reporting by jewelers, museums and auction houses.
Latest Posts
Where are Diamonds Found? Spotlight on Botswana Diamonds
As of 2023, Botswana is the world’s largest producer of diamonds by value and second largest producer of diamonds by volume. Some of the world’s largest diamonds have been found here. Diamonds help build Botswana’s infrastructure, including schools and hospitals,
Where are Diamonds Found? Spotlight on Canadian Diamonds
Some consumers turn to Canadian diamonds in their quest for sustainable natural diamonds. Learn about their discovery, how diamonds help Canadian communities and how a GIA Diamond Origin Report lets you know if your diamond is a Canadian diamond.
Engagement Ring Guide: Best Ways to Save Money on a Diamond
Diamonds are valuable purchases, but you can save money on buying one by understanding the 4Cs and other value factors. Learn how to choose a diamond that is beautiful and still within your budget with the tips below.
Expertise at your fingertips.
You don’t need to be a gemologist to purchase a diamond with confidence. You just need to know where to find one.
GIA is the trusted benchmark for diamond grading. Download the GIA App now to learn more about the 4Cs and look up GIA reports.
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