The 4Cs

Cut is the only one of the 4Cs created by human hands, and it is the one that most determines how your diamond looks. Cut does not refer to the shape (round, oval, pear) — it refers to the quality of the proportions, symmetry, and polish. A well-cut diamond returns light to your eye with maximum brilliance. A poorly-cut diamond of identical carat weight and clarity can look dull, flat, or lifeless. We consider Excellent or Ideal cut non-negotiable across our collections.

Diamonds are graded on a colour scale from D (completely colourless) to Z (visibly yellow or brown). The closer to D, the rarer and more valuable the stone. In practical terms, the human eye cannot reliably distinguish D from G in most lighting conditions. However, in a white metal setting (platinum or white gold), colour above H becomes visible over time. Our recommendation: D–F for the most discerning buyer; G–H for excellent value without visual compromise.

Clarity refers to the presence of internal inclusions or external blemishes in the diamond. The GIA clarity scale runs from FL (Flawless) through VVS1, VVS2, VS1, VS2, SI1, SI2, to I1, I2, I3. Flawless and Internally Flawless are extraordinarily rare. VVS inclusions are invisible to the naked eye and extremely difficult to find under 10x magnification. VS inclusions are invisible to the naked eye. SI1 inclusions are typically invisible — SI2 may have inclusions visible on close inspection.

Carat is a unit of weight — one carat equals 0.2 grams. It is not a measure of size. Two diamonds of identical carat weight can appear very different in size depending on their cut and shape. An elongated shape like oval or pear appears larger than a round of the same weight. A well-cut 1ct stone can look larger than a poorly-cut 1.5ct stone. Do not optimise for carat weight at the expense of cut quality — that is the single most common mistake we see.