Selecting the right diamond is both a personal and meaningful experience. Whether you are creating a custom engagement ring or investing in a timeless piece of fine jewelry, understanding the 4Cs will help you make a confident and informed decision.
At Solow & Co., we walk each client through the 4Cs to ensure the diamond you choose is not only beautiful but aligned with your vision, values, and lifestyle.
1. Cut: The Sparkle Factor
Cut is one of the most important elements of a diamond’s beauty. It refers to how well the diamond’s facets interact with light to produce brilliance, fire, and scintillation. Cut is not the same as shape; instead, it reflects the craftsmanship of the stone.
Even diamonds with perfect clarity and color will appear dull if the cut is poor. We recommend prioritizing cut, especially for center stones, because a well-cut diamond will always appear more radiant and lively.
2. Color: The Closer to Colorless, the Rarer
Diamond color is graded on a scale from D (colorless) to Z (noticeable color). The less color a diamond has, the higher its value and rarity.
At Solow & Co., we typically work with diamonds in the D to G range. These stones appear bright, icy, and refined. However, for clients seeking a warmer look or pairing with yellow or rose gold settings, near-colorless diamonds in the H to I range can still offer incredible beauty.
We also specialize in rare fancy colored diamonds, including pink, blue, green, and yellow. These exceptional stones are graded on a separate scale and prized for their uniqueness and intensity.
3. Clarity: The Diamond’s Natural Fingerprint
Clarity refers to the presence of internal characteristics (inclusions) or external blemishes. Most diamonds contain some natural imperfections, but many are microscopic and invisible to the naked eye.
The GIA clarity scale ranges from Flawless (no visible inclusions under 10x magnification) to Included (inclusions visible without magnification). At Solow & Co., we source diamonds that strike the perfect balance between visual purity and value. Most of our diamonds are in the VS (Very Slightly Included) to IF (Internally Flawless) range.
4. Carat Weight: Size and Proportion
Carat weight measures the physical weight of a diamond, but it does not tell the full story of a diamond’s appearance. Two diamonds of the same carat weight can look dramatically different based on how they are cut.
Rather than focusing on carat weight alone, we help clients evaluate the overall proportions, face-up size, and visual presence of a diamond. In some cases, a slightly smaller but better-cut diamond will appear larger and more brilliant than a heavier stone with a deeper or less ideal cut.
Making the Right Choice with Solow & Co.
Choosing a diamond should feel personal, guided, and pressure-free. Whether you are searching for a five-carat centerpiece or a one-of-a-kind fancy pink diamond, our private consultations ensure that every decision reflects your style and goals.
We invite you to book a private appointment in our New York office or virtually from anywhere in the world. At Solow & Co., every diamond is selected with care, certified by the GIA, and backed by generations of expertise.
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