4 Cs of Diamonds - The Secret to Diamond Appraisal

Author: Hary Markus

The secret behind the appraisal of any diamond lies in what is referred to as "the 4 Cs", namely Carat, Cut, Clarity and Color. These 4 Cs will assure that you know exactly what you are getting in a diamond and once you embrace them and use them to make your purchase, getting a nice bargain becomes a lot easier.

Carat is the first attribute that is used to calculate the quality and value of a diamond. It refers to the weight and therefore the size of a diamond. It is the measure of the mass of a diamond with 1 carat equal to 200 milligrams. It is further subdivided into 100 decimal points to make up 1 carat. This unit of measurement is unique to precious gemstones and is often confused with size even though it is actually a measure of weight.

Cut is the second attribute determining the quality and value of a diamond. Although most often people refer to cut as diamond shapes, being a round brilliant or a fancy shape, the real analysis of the cut refers to the proportions, finish, symmetry, and polish of the diamond. These factors determine the fire and brilliance of a diamond which are crucial in the overall appraisal.

Color is the next attribute in the 4 Cs equation. It refers to the perceived color or more precisely lack of color in a diamond. With the exclusion of "fancy colored diamonds", the more colorless the diamond is, the more valuable it is. Diamonds within this colorless range are the most rare and valuable of all the colors.

Clarity is the last of the 4 Cs and refers to the lack of or presence of internal and external imperfections as seen under 10x magnification. Because diamonds are crystallised carbon atoms under immense pressure and temperature, almost all diamonds contain minute traces of non-crystallized carbon or small non-diamond crystals. The number, size, location and nature of these imperfections found will determine the clarity grade pertaining to the diamond. Regarding the appraisal of the particular stone, the fewer imperfections found, the more valuable it will be.

Combining these 4 attributes together will enable the appraisal of any loose diamond or even a jewelry item which is set with diamonds. The "Rapaport Price List" has set the standard when applying the 4 Cs and experts worldwide in the jewelry industry refer to this list as the benchmark of diamond appraisal.

Should you require further information regarding the 4 Cs of diamonds, please visitwww.diamondbuyersguides.com/the-4cs.
D. Franck, also known as "Davolfan", is a qualified gemologist by trade and is active in the South African Rough Diamond Market.

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