4 C’s of Diamonds
The 4Cs of Diamond Quality
A guide to brilliance by Prism and Pearl.
Understanding the 4Cs which are cut, colour, clarity and carat helps you recognise what makes a stone exceptional. These standards were created by the Gemological Institute of America and are used to evaluate both diamonds and GRA certified moissanite. At Prism and Pearl we use these same principles to ensure every piece meets the highest standard of light, beauty and craftsmanship.
Every moissanite at Prism and Pearl is D VVS1 grade with excellent cut.
Cut. The Art of Light
Cut is the most important of the 4Cs because it determines how a stone interacts with light. Even with perfect colour and clarity a poor cut will make a gem appear flat.
When a stone is cut to ideal proportions light enters through the crown, reflects within the facets and returns upward as sparkle and brilliance. A precise cut creates brilliance which is white light, fire which is flashes of colour and scintillation which are the sparkles that appear when the stone moves.
Our stones are precision cut for strong light performance. Each facet is aligned to create a bright fire that rivals fine diamonds.
Educational tip. Move stones under natural light when comparing them. A well cut gem stays lively even in soft light.
Colour. The Purity of Light
Colour grades measure how colourless a gemstone appears. The scale runs from D which is colourless to Z which is light yellow. The less tint a stone shows the higher the grade.
Moissanite and fine diamonds graded D to F are considered colourless. G to J are near colourless and look white to the eye especially in yellow or rose gold.
We select only near colourless or colourless stones to create a crisp icy look that catches light easily.
Educational tip. Your metal choice affects how colour appears. White metals enhance cooler tones. Yellow gold softens them.
Clarity. The Window to Perfection
Clarity refers to internal inclusions or external blemishes. Even though moissanite is grown in controlled conditions small internal features may still appear though they are usually invisible without magnification.
Clarity grades range from flawless to included. What matters is whether the stone looks clean to the eye.
We hand select stones that are consistently eye clean. Each gem is examined under magnification to ensure light passes freely so the stone looks bright from all angles.
Educational tip. Do not overpay for microscopic perfection. If you cannot see the inclusion without a loupe it will not affect beauty.
Carat. The Measure of Presence
Carat refers to weight not size. One carat equals 0.2 grams. The visual size depends on shape and cut quality. Two stones with the same carat can look quite different.
Larger crystals are rarer which raises price but bigger does not always mean better. A smaller well cut moissanite can look larger and brighter than a bigger stone with less precision.
We encourage choosing the size that suits your style and feels right on your hand.
Educational tip. Focus on proportion not only weight. Stones cut too deep carry unnecessary weight below the surface.
Bringing the 4Cs Together
The 4Cs work as a set. Balancing cut, colour, clarity and carat ensures your stone reflects light beautifully while matching your personal taste.
At Prism and Pearl we believe knowledge creates confidence. Whether you are choosing a statement ring, a bridal piece or a gift, understanding the 4Cs helps you make a decision that reflects your values and your brilliance.
