The Quality of Diamonds: An Overview of the 4Cs

One thing most people know for sure about diamonds is that they’re typically brilliant, stunning, and make great gifts.

However, a lot more goes into selecting the perfect diamond than one might think.

If you’re in the market for something for yourself or a loved one, it can be beneficial to educate yourself on the 4Cs of Diamond Quality to make sure that what you’re getting is really what you’re paying for.

What does “4Cs” mean?

Collectively, a diamond’s color, clarity, cut, and carat weight are deemed the “4Cs.”

When combined, these factors determine a diamond’s value and define its overall quality.

How it Became Known as the 4Cs

Many years ago, there were no consistent terms when referring to diamond quality.

In fact, going back to the 1500s, diamond clarity was described as “without flaws” or “with imperfections.” When it came to color, merchants used words such as “tincture” or “tint.”

Even the cut was simply referred to as “made well” or “made poorly.”

The only consistent term was the one that described weight, which we all still know today as “carat.”

Unfortunately, these inconsistencies prevented jewelers from adequately communicating the value of diamonds to their customers.

Thanks to Robert M. Shipley, a former retail jeweler, the American jewelry industry began its journey toward becoming professionalized in the early 20th century.

In 1931, Shipley established GIA so formal training could be provided to jewelers.

He was also responsible for establishing the American Gem Society (AGS), a guild where GIA graduates became members.

Shipley created the 4Cs, an abbreviation that helped jewelers remember and explain these newly standardized diamond value terms; color, clarity, cut, and carat weight.

The 4Cs of Diamond Quality is now the universal phrase and standard by which all diamonds anywhere in the world can be defined to determine their true value.

This, along with the grading standards and practices of GIA, means that the quality of diamonds can be communicated in a universal language, giving diamond purchasers a way to know what they are actually buying.

How the 4Cs Can Help You

When shopping for a diamond, make sure that you seek out a jeweler who specializes in the 4Cs.

If you are working with someone who has the knowledge required to determine your diamond’s worth, then you can feel comfortable in knowing that your money is going toward something of true quality.

Check out this video from GIA on How to Choose a Diamond: