Which term describes the appearance of a diamond, including its cut, color, and clarity?

The term that best describes the appearance of a diamond, encompassing its cut, color, and clarity, is "grade." In the context of diamonds, grading refers to the evaluation of their physical characteristics and the overall aesthetic appeal. The cut affects how well the diamond reflects light; the color represents its hue and saturation, and clarity pertains to the presence of inclusions or blemishes. Together, these elements determine the quality of a diamond's visual performance, hence leading to its grade.

While "quality" can broadly refer to the overall excellence of the diamond, it does not specifically encapsulate the technical grading processes used to evaluate cut, color, and clarity. "Value" relates more to pricing and market demand rather than the specific aspects of appearance. "Design" typically refers to the artistic expression of a piece of jewelry rather than the diamond itself. Thus, "grade" is the most precise term when discussing the specific attributes constituting a diamond's appearance.