The 4 C's of Diamonds
Understanding the four characteristics of a diamond — Cut, Color, Clarity, and Carat Weight — will help you make a confident, informed purchase. Our specialists are always available to guide you further.
Cut
Cut refers to the proportions, finish, symmetry, and polish of the diamond. These factors determine the fire and brilliance. Well-cut diamonds sell at a premium because the precision of their facets directly controls how much light is reflected to the eye. Two key factors — table percentage and depth percentage — appear on grading reports and are excellent guides when comparing stones.
Color
Color describes the amount of yellow tint the diamond contains — or the absence of it. Color grades run from D (colorless and most valuable) through Z (noticeably yellow). Fancy colored diamonds in intense yellow, blue, green, pink, or red are the exception: their rarity makes them more valuable. At Belfiore we carry diamonds graded J or higher.
Clarity
Clarity measures the absence of inclusions (internal characteristics) and blemishes (surface features). The GIA scale runs from Flawless (FL) through Included (I1–I3). Most inclusions are invisible to the naked eye — a VS2 or SI1 stone often appears flawless in person and offers excellent value. Our team is happy to show you stones under magnification.
Carat Weight
Carat is the unit of weight for diamonds (1 carat = 0.2 grams). Larger diamonds are rarer and command a premium, but two diamonds of equal carat weight can differ greatly in value based on their cut, color, and clarity. The combination of all four Cs — not carat alone — determines a diamond's true beauty and price.