The 4Cs Grading Scale

Diamonds are assessed based on a set of criteria known as the 4Cs: carat, color, clarity, and cut, in order of importance. These criteria provide a standardized way to evaluate the quality and characteristics of a diamond.

Carat Weight

Unit of weight for diamonds. Larger diamonds are considered more valuable.
1 carat = 200 mg

Color Grade

Graded on a scale from D to Z. Colorless diamonds are usually more valuable, unless they are more colored than Z, which are then called “Fancy Colored Diamonds.” 

D-F	Colorless
G-J	Near Colorless
K-M	Slightly Tinted
N-P	Very Light Color
S-Z	Light Color

Clarity Grade

Inclusions (internal flaws) and blemishes (external flaws) on a diamond. Graded on a scale from Flawless (no visible flaws on 10x magnification) to Included (visible flaws).

FL	Flawless
IF	Internally Flawless
VVS1 VVS2	Very Very Slightly Included
VS1 VS2	Very Slightly Included
SI1 SI2	Slightly Included
I1 I2 I3	Included

 

Cut Grade

How well the diamond has been shaped and faceted. Graded on a scale from Excellent to Poor.