4C’s of Diamond


The “4C’s” — Carat, Color, Clarity, and Cut — form the global standard for evaluating diamond quality.

Each “C” plays a unique role in how a diamond looks, sparkles, and feels when worn.

A. CARAT (Weight)

What It Means:

Carat measures the weight of a diamond, not the size. One carat equals 200 milligrams.

What You Should Know:

  • A higher carat weight is rarer and typically more valuable.
  • Two diamonds with the same carat weight can look different depending on cut proportions.
  • A well-cut 1.0ct diamond may appear larger and brighter than a poorly cut 1.2ct stone.

Mioraa Tip (Luxury Tone):


Choose a carat weight that complements your finger size and style preference. Balance carat with cut for maximum brilliance.

B. COLOR (Grade)

What It Means:

Color refers to how colorless a diamond is. The less color, the higher its grade.

GIA Color Scale:

  • D–F: Colorless (premium range; rare and highly valued)
  • G–J: Near Colorless (excellent value; looks white when worn)
  • K–M: Faint color (slight yellow tint visible)

What You Should Know:

  • Most people cannot visually differentiate between color grades unless side by side.
  • Setting choice (white gold, yellow gold) can influence the diamond’s visual color.

Mioraa Tip:

For the best balance of beauty and value, choose diamonds in the G–H range.

C. CLARITY (Grade)

What It Means:

Clarity measures the presence of inclusions (internal features) and blemishes (surface marks).

Clarity Scale:

  • FL–IF: Flawless / Internally Flawless
  • VVS1–VVS2: Very Very Slight Inclusions
  • VS1–VS2: Very Slight Inclusions
  • SI1–SI2: Slight Inclusions (often not visible to the naked eye)
  • I1–I3: Included (visible imperfections)

What You Should Know:

  • Most inclusions are microscopic. Even SI grades can appear clean to the naked eye.
  • Clarities VS and above are considered excellent and eye-clean.
Mioraa Tip:

Choose VS2 or SI1 for the best value — clean look without unnecessary premium..

D. CUT (Grade)

What It Means:

Cut is the most important C. It determines how well a diamond reflects light — its sparkle, brilliance, and fire.


Cut Grades:

  • Excellent
  • Very Good
  • Good
  • Fair / Poor

Why It Matters:

A well-cut diamond can:

  • Appear larger
  • Shine brighter
  • Look whiter
  • Hide small inclusions

Mioraa Tip:


Always prioritize cut. Choose Excellent or Very Good for maximum radiance.