Understanding The 4Cs
When selecting a piece of diamond jewellery, there are important considerations to take into account namely cut, carat, colour and clarity, the so-called 4Cs. Having an understanding of these features is essential in making the correct decision.
Cut
In many ways, the cut of a diamond is the least understood of the 4Cs. It is often thought the cut of a diamond specifically refers to its shape.
In fact, the term “cut” also includes its angles, proportions, polish and symmetry. The way a diamond is cut determines how light enters and leaves the stone, which affects its “life” and “fire”.
At Ronald Abram, cut is the most important of the 4Cs as it’s the most noticeable of the characteristics. So our advice, is to always seek diamonds cut to the most perfect proportions.
Carat
The number of carats in a diamond refers to its weight. There’s a common misconception that the heavier the diamond, the more valuable it will be.
However, factors such as cut, clarity and colour should also be considered when determining value. For this reason, smaller diamonds can sometimes be worth more than larger diamonds with inferior characteristics.
Stones of equal weight can also vary significantly in value.
Colour
Diamonds are graded on a colour scale established by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), ranging from D (colourless) through to Z.
While colourless diamonds are the most rare and therefore the most valuable, beautiful diamonds exist within every category of colour.
Clarity
Imperfections or inclusions occur naturally in diamonds. The number and location of these inclusions is ranked on a scale of clarity from Flawless (FL) to Included (I) by the GIA.
Such imperfections are not readily visible without magnification, and the differences between each category on the scale are very subtle.
Want to learn more?
Our complete 4Cs guide is available as a PDF download. Please click on the button below.
Your collection
Begins here
View all
Guiding you
Every step of the way
Ring Fitting Guide
At Ronald Abram, we would like to ensure your ring is the perfect fit.
Yellow Diamonds
Yellow diamonds are known for their natural warmth and luminosity and are a signature of our brand.
Care Guide
Jewellery maintenance is very simple. With proper care, your jewellery will give you a lifetime of wearing pleasure.
Cleaning Guide
Your jewellery is something to be treasured and admired. With the right care and attention, they can last a lifetime.
Insights
Get louped in
View all-
-
A Brooch Revival: The Renaissance of a Classic Estate Jewel
-
3 Timeless Pieces Every Woman Should Own
Beautifully crafted and forever in vogue, these pieces can be worn day and night, decade after decade.
-
3 Questions to Ask Your Jeweller
Asking questions is key to any successful acquisition, but all too often buyers are reluctant to ask them. There’s a misconception that asking questions assumes naivety on the part of the...
-
Top 3 Jewellery Buying Mistakes
While we applaud buyers who come to the table prepared, it’s a good idea to keep in mind that whatever you’ve read is just a guide. In our experience, buyers...
-
Celebrating 55 Years of Heritage
As some of you may know, this year I celebrate my 55th year in business. It’s a significant milestone for us as a brand, and for Joyce and myself personally,...
-
Sapphires: Origin vs Beauty
We’re often asked by aspiring collectors which sapphire region we recommend. In an industry dependent on grading and in a world conditioned by ranking and rating, we tend to expect...
-
Diamond Instincts: It's All in the Cut
