When purchasing a diamond, it's important to understand the 4 Cs. These factors are used to determine a diamond's overall beauty and sparkle. In addition to carat weight, the four Cs also determine a diamond's cut and clarity. While these characteristics may seem simple enough, a little understanding can help you decide whether a diamond is worth its price.

The shape of a diamond 4 c's is a fundamentally important characteristic. A well-cut diamond will sparkle, fire, and reflect light. Poorly cut diamonds will appear dull, dark, and see-through. Thus, a well-cut diamond is a critical factor in its value. The 4 Cs are very important in determining the appearance of a diamond, but they don't necessarily have equal importance.

Another important factor is color. A diamond's color can vary wildly. It can range from blue white to yellowish brown. Ideally, you'll want a diamond with a color grade of D or higher. Diamonds with lower colors have yellow or brownish tints that reduce their value. While colorless diamonds are highly sought after, they are also more affordable than diamonds with a higher color grade.

Clarity is another important criterion for diamonds. The less inclusions a diamond has, the higher its value. Clear diamonds are easier to look at than those with inclusions. The GIA uses a scale of 11 grades to grade diamonds, from Flawless to Included. The clarity of a diamond depends on where it's a flaw is located.

Color is also a major factor. If a diamond is yellow or orange, you can't tell if it's colorless, unless you look closely at it. The naked eye cannot tell the difference between two diamonds, so the difference in price is substantial. A diamond that's colorless must be completely clear before it can be set in a ring. If tinted, it will block the sparkle. However, an I color diamond will look radiant.

Carat is one of the most important criterions for diamond value, but not the only factor. A diamond's carat weight depends on all 4 Cs. The better the cut, the larger the diamond. This criterion is used to judge diamond size, but it isn't completely reliable. A diamond can be the same carat weight and shape, but it could be significantly different in size.

Clarity refers to the presence of small imperfections within and on the surface of the stone. Diamonds are created under immense pressure, so they are susceptible to inclusions and flaws. These imperfections, known as inclusions, are not always visible. They are present on the stone's surface, and are a part of its uniqueness. Eye-clean diamonds are usually graded SI or higher on the clarity scale. Similarly, diamonds with few or no inclusions are considered to be of high value.