The Four C's
Carat • Color • Clarity • Cut
Diamonds are not only symbolic of enduring love and commitment but also significant investments. To make the right choice, the Four C's of diamonds – Carat, Color, Clarity, and Cut – are essential factors that help determine the quality and value of a diamond. These attributes play a significant role in one's diamond buying process, as they influence the diamond's appearance, rarity, and ultimately, its overall worth.
The Anatomy of a Diamond
Beyond the Four C’s, a diamond’s beauty is shaped by its precise proportions and craftsmanship. The anatomy of a diamond consists of several key components that influence its brilliance, fire, and scintillation. The table and crown work together to reflect light, while the pavilion and culet help direct light back through the top for maximum sparkle. The girdle provides structural integrity, and the angles of the crown and pavilion determine how light interacts within the stone. Understanding these elements ensures you can appreciate not just a diamond’s appearance but the expert craftsmanship behind its cut.
The Fifth C
Washington Diamond's Exclusive Assurance
At Washington Diamond, we recognize the importance of these Four C's and take our commitment to diamond quality and customer satisfaction to a higher level. In addition to the traditional Four C's, we introduce a fifth C that is pivotal to every diamond purchase: "Certification." This approach ensures expertise, transparency, and confidence for every customer's journey to finding the perfect diamond is not only guided by the Four C's but also supported by a certified report.
Discover The C's
You'll soon discover that the setting style is more than just a design choice – it's a statement of love and personal taste. From classic solitaires to opulent multi-row settings, each engagement ring style tells a unique story. Join us in this section of our guide, where we will explore the diverse landscape of engagement ring setting styles.
Carat
Carat is the most well-known of the Four C's and refers to the diamond's weight. One carat equals 200 milligrams. Carat weight impacts size and price, but the other C's also play a critical role in a diamond’s overall value.
Compare Diamond Carat Weight
Color
Diamonds are graded from D (colorless) to Z (light yellow or brown). Less color generally means higher value, though setting and metal choice can influence appearance.
Discover Diamond Color
Clarity
Clarity measures inclusions and blemishes within a diamond. These natural characteristics are graded from Flawless to Included.
Discover Diamond Clarity
Cut
Cut directly affects a diamond’s brilliance, fire, and scintillation. A well-cut diamond reflects light for maximum sparkle.
Certification
Washington Diamond provides diamonds certified by respected gemological labs such as GIA and IGI.
These reports verify authenticity and provide confidence in your diamond purchase.