The 5 C’s, learn

What are the 5 C´s

A question DCLA is often asked:  What are the 5 C´s when buying a diamond ?

The 5 C’s are a widely used framework in the diamond industry for evaluating the quality and value of a diamond. They are:

1. Carat Weight: The carat weight of a diamond is the measurement of its weight. One carat is equivalent to 0.2 grams, and the weight of a diamond is an important factor in determining its value.
2. Cut: The cut of a diamond refers to how well the diamond has been cut and shaped. The cut determines the amount of light that enters the diamond and how it is reflected, which in turn affects the diamond’s brilliance and overall beauty.
3. Clarity: The clarity of a diamond refers to the number and size of any inclusions or blemishes in the stone. The fewer the inclusions, the higher the clarity of the diamond.
4. Color: The color of a diamond refers to how much color is present in the stone. The most valuable diamonds are colorless or nearly colorless, with a grading system that ranges from D (colorless) to Z (light yellow or brown).
5. Certification: A diamond certification is an independent evaluation of the diamond’s quality and characteristics, and it is an important factor in determining its value. The most widely recognized and respected diamond certification organizations are the GIA, AGS, HRD, IGI and DCLA.

The quality and value of a diamond are judged on five fundamental criteria known as the ‘five C’s.’ The carat-weight, colour, clarity, and cut…and the most important C of all, confidence.

Confidence is found in the form of an accurate diamond grading certificate. Some differences in quality are easily noticeable, others need specialist equipment and qualified graders with years of experience to assess and detect.

Accurate assessment of a diamond is only possible prior to being set. Once the stone is set even a trained grader cannot precisely determine colour, size and purity clarity. Therefore quality and value can only be estimated. Minor differences in colour, clarity and weight can have a major effect on value. For this reason, laboratories only grade loose diamonds.

In addition to the five C’s, laboratories test for treatments, which enhance the colour and clarity of the diamond. Treatments such as fracture filling, laser drilling and high temperature high pressure, significantly reduce the value of the diamond and should be disclosed.