What are the four Cs that define the quality of a diamond?

Prepare for the GIA Diamond Essentials Exam. Learn with flashcards and diverse questions. Master diamond basics and succeed!

The four Cs that define the quality of a diamond are Cut, Clarity, Color, and Carat. Each of these factors plays a significant role in determining the overall quality and value of a diamond.

  • Cut refers to how well a diamond has been shaped and faceted. This affects not only the diamond's brilliance and sparkle but also its overall aesthetic appeal. A well-cut diamond reflects light beautifully, enhancing its visual characteristics.
  • Clarity measures the presence of internal or external imperfections, known as inclusions and blemishes, respectively. Higher clarity ratings indicate fewer blemishes, which typically increase a diamond's value.

  • Color assesses how colorless a diamond is, with a preference for diamonds that are as close to colorless as possible. While some colors like blues and pinks can be valuable, most diamonds are graded on a scale ranging from colorless to various shades of yellow or brown.

  • Carat measures the weight of the diamond, with one carat equal to 200 milligrams. A higher carat weight usually implies greater value, but this must be considered alongside the other Cs.

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