Are Brand-Name Diamonds Better? What are the 4Cs? Is Bigger Always Better?
When it comes to diamonds, you have to deal with all those intimidating grading parameters. The 4Cs of diamonds explain why two stones might look similar, but their prices can be worlds apart.
Don’t worry—after this guide, you’ll know how to spot the real value! Whether you’re choosing a diamond for a classic engagement ring or a pair of unique handcrafted vintage earrings, understanding these basics is key.
Understanding the 4Cs of Diamonds
1. Carat in the 4Cs of Diamonds
Carat is the unit of weight for a diamond. One carat equals 200 milligrams and is divided into 100 points. So, when you hear “30 points” or “50 points,” it refers to a diamond weighing 0.3ct or 0.5ct.
Diamonds of the same carat can appear to have different sizes depending on the cut. Interestingly, a square-cut diamond of the same carat can appear about 15% larger than a round-cut one.
Everyone knows that the bigger the diamond, the higher the price. But the price doesn’t increase linearly—it skyrockets.
Tip: Diamonds over 1 carat have investment value, while those over 0.3ct have resale value.
2. Color in the 4Cs of Diamonds
Diamond color grading classifies diamonds by how much of a yellowish tint they have. The scale ranges from D (colorless) to Z (light yellow). Diamonds below grade Z are typically used for industrial purposes.
A yellowish tint can affect a white diamond’s value—the yellower it is, the lower the value. However, a strong, saturated yellow is considered a fancy yellow diamond, a type of colored diamond where the yellower it is, the more valuable it becomes.
Tips:
For colorless diamonds, an F-color is often more cost-effective than a D-color diamond of the same grade.
Even small accent stones will look whiter and more brilliant when using high-color diamonds rather than ordinary white ones.
3. Clarity in the 4Cs of Diamonds
Clarity refers to the presence of internal and external imperfections. A trained professional uses a 10x magnification loupe to grade it. Grades range from Flawless (FL) to Included (I), with VVS, VS, and SI in between.
Diamonds often contain tiny imperfections like pinpoints, clouds, or feathers. These inclusions can block or deflect light, affecting a diamond’s brilliance and color tone.
Tips:
Inclusions in SI1-grade diamonds and above are hard to see with the naked eye and don’t affect sparkle. Focus more on other factors like cut.
Difference between SI2 and P1: If a flaw is visible at 30cm with the naked eye, it’s P-grade; if not, it’s SI2.
4. Cut in the 4Cs of Diamonds
Cut directly affects a diamond’s brilliance. An ideal cut reflects almost all light entering the diamond, giving it vibrant fire and sparkle. Cut grades are Excellent, Very Good, Good, and Fair. Only about 3% of diamonds achieve an Excellent cut.
While an ideal cut creates the most brilliant diamond, cutters often balance cut quality with carat weight to maximize profit. That’s why excellent-cut diamonds are rare.
Other Factors That Affect Diamond Value
5. Fluorescence
When exposed to strong UV light, a diamond may emit a colored glow (blue, yellow, etc.). The intensity is graded as NONE, FAINT, MEDIUM, STRONG, or VERY STRONG.
Fluorescence usually doesn’t significantly affect a diamond’s value unless very strong, which can make the diamond look hazy in natural light. For fancy colored diamonds, fluorescence can enhance the color.
6. Cut Shape
In addition to round diamonds, diamonds are often cut into different shapes. For diamonds of the same weight and quality, different cuts can affect price.
The shape of the rough diamond is the main reason it is cut a certain way—the goal is to minimize weight loss. Market demand can also influence shape choice.
Tips:
Emerald-cut diamonds are usually less expensive than round diamonds of the same size, allowing for a larger stone on the same budget.
Princess-cut diamonds appear about 15% larger than round diamonds of the same weight.
Pear-shaped diamonds should be worn with the round part at the base of your finger and the pointed end outward, making fingers look longer. Pear shapes can appear larger than round diamonds of the same carat.
Common Myths You’ve Heard
7. Are “Hearts & Arrows” a Sign of a Good Diamond?
Hearts & Arrows is not a special cut—it’s a pattern that appears in a precise standard round cut. Seeing it doesn’t automatically mean the cut is excellent. Proper proportions of table and pavilion allow you to see eight arrows on top and eight hearts on the bottom with a viewing tool.
8. Are Diamonds with a “Laser Inscription” Better?
A “laser inscription” is a GIA code on the diamond’s girdle, helping buyers verify the diamond matches its certificate.
GIA Diamond Dossier: Diamonds under 1ct (small certificate), includes laser inscription.
GIA Diamond Grading Report: Diamonds 1ct or larger (large certificate), usually no laser inscription; includes clarity plot diagram instead.
Quick Fact: A clarity plot diagram shows a diamond’s internal features—like a fingerprint for the stone.
Besides Diamonds, What Other Gemstones Are Good for Engagement Rings?
Colored gemstones have beautiful meanings. After Princess Kate’s wedding with Diana’s 18ct sapphire ring, colored gemstone engagement rings became trendy.
Sapphire
Known as “Imperial Stones,” they symbolize loyalty, wisdom, and eternal love. Deep blue color and royal appeal make them popular in engagement rings.
Ruby
Red symbolizes passion, love, and loyalty. A ruby ring is a classic choice to celebrate romance.
Emerald
Emeralds represent love and life, vitality of spring, success, and guaranteed love.
Now that you’ve read this, are you ready for your engagement ring?
If not, the Peony Jewels official website offers a large gallery and online custom design services to help you create a unique token of your love.
After reading this guide, if you’re curious about the exquisite craftsmanship behind handcrafted vintage earrings and want to bring your ideas to life, we invite you to explore our unique handcrafted vintage earrings collection.
