The 4 C's of Diamonds

Your Essential Guide to Understanding Diamond Quality

1. Cut

Cut is the most important factor in determining a diamond's brilliance. It refers to how well the diamond's facets interact with light — not the shape of the diamond. A well-cut diamond reflects light internally from one facet to another, then disperses it through the top, creating that signature sparkle.

Grades: Excellent, Very Good, Good, Fair, Poor. At NYX Jewel, we use only Excellent and Very Good cut diamonds to ensure maximum brilliance.

2. Color

Diamond color actually measures the absence of color. The GIA/IGI scale ranges from D (completely colorless) to Z (light yellow or brown). Colorless diamonds (D–F) are the most prized, while near-colorless diamonds (G–J) offer excellent value with minimal visible color to the naked eye.

Our standard: NYX Jewel primarily offers diamonds in the D–H range, ensuring a beautifully white appearance in every setting.

3. Clarity

Clarity measures the presence of internal inclusions or external blemishes in a diamond. Most imperfections are microscopic and invisible to the naked eye. The scale ranges from FL (Flawless) to I3 (Included).

Common grades: FL, IF, VVS1, VVS2, VS1, VS2, SI1, SI2, I1, I2, I3. Lab-grown diamonds often achieve exceptional clarity. At NYX Jewel, we typically offer VS1 and above for the best visual purity.

4. Carat

Carat refers to the weight of the diamond, not its size. One carat equals 0.2 grams. While larger diamonds are rarer and more valuable, two diamonds of equal carat weight can differ significantly in appearance depending on their cut and shape.

Tip: A well-cut diamond can appear larger than its actual carat weight, while a poorly cut one may look smaller. Always prioritize cut quality alongside carat weight for the best visual impact.

Need help choosing the perfect diamond? Our experts are here to guide you.