What to look for
Each of the four C's is important, and each will affect the price of the diamond you choose. Once you understand these diamond essentials, you'll be able to decide what's best for you.



Carat
Weighing in on size
The weight of a diamond is measured in carats. One carat is divided into 100 points so that a diamond of 50 points is described as a 1/2 carat. Many people want the largest carat weight diamond they can afford. But keep in mind that while size is an important factor in determining the value of a diamond, clarity, color and cut are equally important.

Clarity
The clarity affects the rarity
The clarity refers to the diamond's inclusions - tiny markings within the stone. If they can be seen only under 10 power magnification, they will not affect the beauty and the brilliance of the diamond. However, they will dramatically affect the price; the fewer the markings, the more rare - and valuable - the stone.

Color
Judging color
Diamond colors start at the extremely rare and colorless D grade and continue through the alphabet to light yellow grades S - Z. The closer a diamond is to being colorless, the more radiant, exceptional and costly it is.

Cut
The cut affects the beauty and brilliance
We can see the fire and warmth of a diamond as a direct result of the cut. Proper proportions will maximize its beauty and brilliance. Poor proportions sacrifice the sparkle that gives a diamond life by allowing light to escape the stone without being reflected.