FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions: Diamonds

What are the 4Cs?

The 4Cs are carat weight, color, clarity, and cut. They describe different aspects of diamond quality within the relevant reporting system.

Is cut the same as shape?

No. Shape describes the outline. Cut-quality assessment addresses other aspects of design and craftsmanship within a defined system.

Does every shape receive an overall cut grade?

Not necessarily. Read the scope of the report product and the issuing laboratory's system rather than assuming every shape is assessed identically.

Does carat weight tell me how large the diamond looks?

Weight alone does not establish visible dimensions. Compare the reported measurements and actual item as well.

Is total carat weight the center-stone weight?

Not necessarily. It may combine several stones. Ask exactly which stones are included and whether the figure is measured or estimated.

Does eye-clean mean a particular clarity grade?

Do not assume it does. Ask which viewing conditions the seller means and compare the statement with the actual report and stone.

Are laboratory-grown diamonds the same as simulants?

No. Laboratory-grown diamonds are diamond. Simulants are other materials that resemble diamond.

Can I identify natural origin from a photograph?

A photograph is not a reliable substitute for appropriate origin identification. Request supporting documentation and qualified examination when needed.

Does fluorescence mean a diamond is poor quality?

No universal conclusion follows from that field alone. Read the result in context and consider the appearance of the individual stone.

Do all laboratories use identical laboratory-grown report categories?

No. Read the current product terminology and the report's issue date before comparing results across laboratories.