Every diamond is graded on four characteristics. Understanding them is the single best way to compare stones and get great value.
#Cut — the sparkle
Cut describes how well a diamond's facets are shaped and angled. It decides how much light returns to your eye, so it has the biggest impact on beauty. If you prioritise one C, make it cut.
#Colour — from D to Z
Colour is graded from D (colourless) through to Z (light yellow). D–F are colourless, G–J are near colourless. In a white gold or platinum setting, G–H looks bright white to most eyes; warmer metals can flatter I–J stones.
#Clarity — the inner character
Clarity measures tiny inclusions and surface marks under 10× magnification, from Flawless (FL) to Included (I3). VS1 and VS2 diamonds look clean to the naked eye and offer excellent value.
#Carat — the weight
One carat is 0.2 grams. Carat is weight, not size, so two diamonds of the same carat can look different depending on shape and cut. Our diamond size chart shows them at real scale.
#Where to spend, where to save
- Spend on cut — it drives sparkle.
- Save on clarity — eye-clean is enough.
- Balance colour with your metal choice.
- Consider sizes just under a round number (0.90 ct instead of 1.00 ct) for a smart saving.