In the 1940s, GIA developed a set of universal and objective standards that grade every diamond. The four key characteristics are color, clarity, carat weight and cut. Today, these four factors are the hallmark of a diamond and determine its value.

The first of the 4c's of diamonds is the diamond's color. A diamond's color ranges from icy white to light yellow or brown. It's important to know the difference between one diamond color grade and another, as this can make a huge difference in its price.

Clarity is a very complex and technical concept that can affect the sparkle of a diamond. While clarity is usually described as a number, there are many different types of clarity grades and it's very important to understand them before you purchase a diamond.

A diamond's clarity can be assessed by examining the stone under a 10X magnification loup. This allows you to see the surface of the diamond and the internal structure. If you notice any imperfections in the diamond, this can affect its appearance and the price of the diamond.

When determining the grade of a diamond's clarity, you should always consider the type of inclusions that are present. There are several types of inclusions, including internal fractures and external flaws. It's also important to keep in mind that the size of these flaws can make a big difference in a diamond's clarity.

For example, a diamond that is very clear can have inclusions that are small enough to be invisible with the naked eye. But a diamond that is very cloudy may have inclusions that are larger and harder to see.

This is why it's important to take your time when shopping for a diamond. The best way to ensure that you are getting the right diamond is to ask questions and find out as much information as possible about each stone.

The next step is to understand how each of the four Cs affects the value of a diamond. The GIA's system has created a set of guidelines that can help you decide what factors are most important to you and your budget when buying a diamond.

Among the four Cs, cut is the most important factor to consider when choosing a diamond. This is a complex term that refers to the shape of the stone, its proportions and symmetry as well as how it interacts with light.

You'll want to choose a stone that is cut well, so you can enjoy its brilliance. This can be difficult to do if you don't have a lot of experience, so it's worth taking the time to get educated before making any purchases.

In addition to looking at the 4 Cs of a diamond, you should also consider the location where it was mined. While it is not as widely studied as the other four Cs, this can still have a big impact on how your diamond is valued.