Diamond Fundamentals
Learn more about diamonds and the fundamentals of what makes each diamond so unique. Here, our gemmologists cover topics such as colour, cost, clarity and cut within our detailed diamond guides.
What are the fundamentals of choosing a diamond?
The value of a diamond is determined by the four characteristics that equate to its beauty and rarity. The fundamental diamond characteristics are known as the 4Cs: cut, colour, clarity and carat weight. The higher the grades of the 4Cs, the rarer and more valuable the diamond is.
Delve into our detailed guides to explore the 4Cs, see how each of the 4Cs determine how much diamonds cost, and how the 4Cs can help you to find the best diamond for your budget.
Finding the right diamond for you
Look into how diamonds are priced and top tips to choosing the best diamond.
We get it, you’ve never done this before.
That’s why we have diamond and design experts on hand, who are here to guide you through every step – from understanding what carat, colour, cut and clarity mean, to designing the perfect ring.
What are the 4Cs of choosing a diamond?
When choosing a diamond, you’ll hear a lot about the 4Cs - the four basic characteristics that make up a diamond’s most notable charactertistics: cut, colour, clarity and carat weight. The high the grade of each, the higher the value of the diamond. Learn which of 4Cs to prioritise and which to compromise, to find the best diamond for you and your personal budget.
Cut
Regarded as the most important factor when choosing a diamond, an excellent cut diamond ensures the bright, icy, inimitable sparkle that only a diamond could possess. Find out what makes a diamond sparkle through our rich and detailed diamond cut guide.
Colour
The next most apparent characteristic of a diamond is it’s colour (or, ideally, lack thereof). Some diamonds form with yellow or brownish colour, while others remain colourless. Compare colour grades with a detailed diamond colour scale, and discover which is the best diamond colour grade for you.
Clarity
A good characteristic to compromise on to save money when prioritising cut and colour grade, a diamond’s clarity grade depends on the small marks found internally. Between certain grades, any internal inclusions will be invisible to the naked eye: find out which grades to choose from.
Carat
A measurement of weight, a diamond’s carat correlates to its size. The carat weight of a diamond largely impacts its price. Discover what carat weight means, how this affects price and the right carat weight range for you and your personal budget.
Related Guides
From designing your ring, your way, to choosing the best diamond for your budget: explore our expertly curated guides.