Understanding the 4Cs of Diamonds: Cut, Color, Clarity & Carat

The 4Cs of Diamonds: Essential Knowledge for San Diego Buyers

When shopping for a diamond, whether it's for an engagement ring, a pendant, or a custom piece, understanding the 4Cs is crucial. At Belmont Watches, we guide clients in San Diego through every step of the diamond selection process, ensuring you know exactly what you're buying and why it matters. The 4Cs Cut, Color, Clarity, and Carat - were developed by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) and are used worldwide to grade and compare diamonds.

1. Cut: The Sparkle Factor

Many people mistakenly believe that the cut refers to a diamond's shape (like round or oval). However, in gemology, "cut" refers to how well the diamond has been faceted and polished. This is the most significant factor in determining how much a diamond sparkles.

• Excellent Cut: Reflects most light that enters; maximum brilliance

• Very Good to Good Cut: Offers great value with plenty of sparkle

• Fair to Poor Cut: Exhibits less brilliance and a duller appearance

Belmont Tip: Always prioritize the cut. Even a flawless diamond can appear lifeless if it has a poor cut.

2. Color: The Whiter, The Brighter

Diamond color is graded from D (colorless) to Z (light yellow). Most engagement rings fall between D and J on this scale.

• D–F: Colorless (premium look and value)

• G–J: Near colorless (great value without obvious color)

• K–Z: Noticeable color (may work better with vintage or yellow gold settings)

Belmont Tip: We often recommend G or H color diamonds for the best balance of value and visual appeal.

3. Clarity: How Clean Is Your Stone?

Clarity measures the number of inclusions (internal flaws) and blemishes (external flaws) in a diamond. The fewer flaws, the better the clarity.

• FL–IF: Flawless to Internally Flawless (very rare)

• VVS1–VVS2: Very, very slightly included (almost invisible inclusions)

• VS1–VS2: Very slightly included (minor inclusions not visible to the naked eye)

• SI1–SI2: Slightly included (some visible inclusions, but good value)

• I1–I3: Included (eye-visible flaws)

Belmont Tip: VS2 or SI1 diamonds often provide great appearance without the high price of flawless stones.

4. Carat: Size vs. Impact

Carat weight measures the mass of the diamond rather than its visual size. Two diamonds with the same carat weight can appear different in size based on their cut and shape.

• 1.00 Carat: The popular benchmark for engagement rings

• Stones Just Under Full-Carat Marks: For example, a 0.90ct diamond can offer savings while maintaining a similar appearance

Belmont Tip: Don’t get too fixated on carat weight alone. A smaller, well-cut diamond can outshine a larger, poorly cut one.

Why San Diego Trusts Belmont Watches for Fine Jewelry

With decades of combined experience in custom jewelry design, loose stone selection, and diamond sourcing, Belmont Watches has become a trusted name for jewelry in San Diego. While we're known for our curated collection of fine timepieces, our expertise in custom engagement rings, wedding bands, and gemstone jewelry has made us the go-to destination inside the San Diego Jewelry Exchange.

Every piece we create is backed by transparent education, expert craftsmanship, and genuine service. Whether you're designing a ring from scratch or looking to upgrade your diamond, our in-house team ensures the process is smooth and exciting.

Working with Belmont Watches in San Diego

When you design a custom ring or purchase a diamond with Belmont, we walk you through each of the 4Cs, either in person or virtually. Our goal is to help you understand the trade-offs and find the best diamond that suits your budget and style. We are located in the San Diego Jewelry Exchange and are known for our personal service, transparency, and expert sourcing.

Have Questions About Diamonds?
We’re here to help. Visit our showroom or contact us here to schedule a consultation.

Belmont Watches
San Diego Jewelry Exchange, 7th Floor
861 6th Ave, Suite 712, San Diego, CA 92101