The 4Cs of Diamond Quality

Cut

The cut of a diamond determines how light interacts with the stone. A well-cut diamond reflects light internally from one facet to another, then disperses it through the top of the stone. Cut grades range from Ideal to Good.

• Ideal — Maximum brilliance with perfectly proportioned facets.
• Excellent — Exceptional light performance with near-perfect proportions.
• Very Good — Strong brilliance with minor proportion deviations.
• Good — Noticeable light performance suitable for any setting.

Clarity

Clarity measures the presence of internal inclusions and external blemishes. Most inclusions are invisible to the naked eye and require magnification to detect.

The clarity scale ranges from FL (Flawless) through IF, VVS1, VVS2, VS1, VS2, SI1, to SI2.

Color

Diamond color is graded on a scale from D (colorless) to Z. The most valuable diamonds are completely colorless, allowing maximum light to pass through and create exceptional brilliance.

At Antwerp Diamonds, we offer diamonds in the D through J color range, ensuring exceptional quality.

Carat

Carat refers to a diamond's weight, not its size. One carat equals 0.2 grams. While larger diamonds are rarer and more valuable, the overall beauty depends on how all 4Cs work together.

Two diamonds of equal carat weight can have very different values depending on their cut, clarity, and color.