Diamond 4Cs

Anatomy of a Diamond

Diamonds are precisely cut to enhance brilliance, fire, and scintillation. Each part influences light interaction, affecting beauty and value. Understanding diamond anatomy helps buyers make informed choices.

Table Width

Table Width refers to the measurement of a diamond’s top flat facet (table) in relation to its total diameter, expressed as a percentage. It is a key proportion in evaluating a diamond’s cut quality and light performance.

Total Depth

Total Depth refers to the vertical height of a diamond from the table (top facet) to the culet (bottom point), measured as a percentage of the diamond’s total diameter (for round diamonds) or width (for fancy shapes).

Culet – The Protective Tip

The culet is the small facet or point at the diamond’s base. A tiny culet prevents damage without affecting appearance, while a large one may be visible through the table.

Girdle Thickness

Girdle Thickness refers to the width of the diamond's girdle (the outer edge that separates the crown from the pavilion). It is measured as a percentage of the diamond's diameter and categorized into different grades.

Pavilion Depth

Pavilion Depth refers to the vertical distance from the girdle (widest part of the diamond) to the culet (bottom tip of the diamond). It is measured in millimeters and expressed as a percentage of the diamond’s total diameter or width.

Crown Height

Crown Height refers to the vertical distance from the girdle (widest part of the diamond) to the table (top flat facet). It is measured in millimeters and expressed as a percentage of the diamond’s total diameter or width.

Girdle Diameter

Girdle Diameter refers to the width of a diamond measured across its widest point (girdle), from one edge to the other. It is the largest diameter of a round diamond and is used as a reference for calculating other proportions, such as table width % and total depth %.

Diamond Cut

Diamond cut is the most important factor in determining a diamond's brilliance, fire, and overall visual appeal. The GIA (Gemological Institute of America) grades diamond cut based on how well a diamond’s proportions, symmetry, and polish allow light to reflect. Below is an in-depth analysis of each cut grade.

Excellent Cut

An excellent cut diamond reflects almost all incoming light, maximizing brilliance and fire. The precise proportions ensure optimal light performance, creating a bright and lively appearance. The facets are aligned with high precision, allowing for superior scintillation and minimal light leakage.

Very Good Cut

A very good cut diamond offers exceptional sparkle, but with slight differences in proportion compared to an excellent cut. These slight variations may result in minor light leakage, but the overall brilliance remains strong.

Good Cut

A good cut diamond reflects a majority of the light that enters, but it does not achieve the same level of brilliance as excellent or very good cuts. The proportions may be slightly off, leading to some light leakage and a reduction in sparkle.

Fair Cut

A fair cut diamond has noticeable light loss due to imbalanced proportions. The diamond may appear somewhat dull, as a significant amount of light escapes rather than being reflected back. The shape may also be slightly off, affecting its overall appeal.

Poor Cut

A poor cut diamond fails to reflect most of the light that enters it, resulting in a dull and lifeless appearance. Poor proportions cause excessive light leakage, making the diamond appear dark and lacking brilliance.

Diamond Color

Diamond color is graded based on how much yellow or brown tint is present in a white diamond. The GIA (Gemological Institute of America) grades diamond color on a scale from D (colorless) to Z (noticeable color).

Colorless (D-F) – Highest Quality

These diamonds have little to no color and appear icy white. They offer the highest brilliance because no color interferes with light reflection.

D: Completely colorless, the rarest and most valuable.
E: Nearly colorless, with only trace amounts of color detectable under magnification.
F:Slight color presence, but still considered colorless to the naked eye.

Near Colorless (G-J) – Best Value forSparkle

These diamonds have slight color, but it is difficult to see unless compared to a colorless diamond. They offer a great balance between appearance and affordability.

D: Nearly indistinguishable from colorless unless closely inspected.
E: Very slight warmth, but still appears white in most settings.
F: Noticeable tint in larger diamonds, but still a good balance of value.
j: A faint yellow hue may be visible, especially in larger stones or white gold settings.

K-Z: Warm-Toned Diamonds with Distinctive Appeal

Diamonds in the K-Z range display a noticeable yellow or brown tint, adding warmth and character. They are an excellent choice for those who appreciate vintage aesthetics or want a unique look at an affordable price.

K-M: Faint yellow hue, still brilliant, pairs beautifully with yellow or rose gold.
N-R: Light yellow tones, great for creative and antique-inspired designs.
S-Z: More intense color, offering a bold and vibrant appearance.

Diamond Clarity

Clarity refers to the presence of internal inclusions or external blemishes in a diamond. While most imperfections are microscopic and do not impact beauty, fewer inclusions increase a diamond’s rarity and value.

A Flawless (FL) diamond has no inclusions or blemishes visible under 10x magnification. These diamonds are extremely rare, making them highly valuable.

Diamond Carat

Carat weight measures a diamond’s size, but it’s important to consider how carat interacts with cut, as a well-cut smaller diamond can appear larger than a poorly cut bigger diamond.

Diamond Shapes

Diamond shape refers to the outline and physical form of a diamond when viewed from above. Each shape has distinct characteristics that affect its brilliance, fire, and overall appearance. The right diamond shape depends on personal style, setting preference, and how the shape interacts with light.