Diamonds are evaluated using four criteria, known as the 4Cs.
Cut
The cut determines how the diamond reflects light. A well-cut diamond sparkles more, even if it is smaller. Round brilliant is the most popular shape.
Color
Diamonds are graded from colorless to light yellow. Colorless grades are the rarest, but near-colorless diamonds look white to most eyes, especially in yellow gold settings.
Clarity
Clarity describes tiny inclusions inside the stone. Many are invisible to the naked eye.
Carat
The carat measures weight, not size. Two diamonds of the same carat can look different depending on the cut.
In iconic jewelry
Houses such as Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, Tiffany & Co. and Harry Winston select diamonds to high standards. See our bridal guide.
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