The 4 Cs of Diamonds

Desert Wholesale Diamond — Serving Scottsdale, Palm Desert, and Clients Worldwide

When investing in a diamond — whether for an engagement ring, anniversary gift, or for treating yourself — knowledge is everything. The value of every diamond is defined by four universal grading standards: Cut, Color, Clarity, and Carat Weight. Collectively known as the 4 Cs, these characteristics help you compare diamonds and find the one that best suits your style, needs, and budget.

At Desert Wholesale Diamond, we work with clients one-on-one, in-person and virtually, to build your custom piece. From high-end, investment-grade stones to budget-friendly options that still sparkle brilliantly, our team is committed to helping you feel confident and proud of your choice.

Carat Weight

Carat weight measures the actual weight of a diamond, with one carat equaling 200 milligrams. While larger diamonds are rarer and often more valuable, carat weight alone doesn’t determine beauty — cut quality and proportions play an equally big role.

• Carat weights are often expressed in fractions. For example:

  • 0.50 carat = half carat

  • 1.50 carat = one and a half carats

• Sometimes you’ll hear the term “pointers.” A 0.10 carat stone may be called a “10-pointer,” while a 0.53 carat stone could be referred to as a “53-pointer.”

• Diamonds weighing just under a milestone weight (like 0.96 carats) may be called “light,” while those just above (like 0.78 carats) may be called “heavy.”

Cut

Cut is the most important of the 4 Cs, because it directly affects how much your diamond sparkles. A well-cut diamond reflects light, giving it that unmistakable brightness and shimmer.

• Cut vs. Shape: Cut is not the same as shape (round, oval, cushion, etc.). It’s about symmetry, polish, and proportions.

• The 60/60 Rule: For round diamonds, a total depth of around 60% and a table of 60% is considered “preferred proportions,” ensuring maximum brilliance.

• Precision Cutting: Diamonds with Excellent or Ideal cut grades — or those with perfect Hearts & Arrows symmetry — reflect light with maximum beauty.

• Even a flawless diamond can look dull with a poor cut. If sparkle matters most, always prioritize cut over carat size.

Clarity

Clarity measures how free a diamond is from inclusions (internal features) and blemishes (external marks). Nearly every diamond has these natural “fingerprints” formed deep within the earth.

• The GIA Clarity Scale:

  • FL: Flawless

  • IF: Internally Flawless

  • VVS1–VVS2: Very, Very Slightly Included

  • VS1–VS2: Very Slightly Included

  • SI1–SI3: Slightly Included

  • I1–I3: Included

• Shape Matters: Step cuts (emerald, Asscher) are more transparent, so inclusions are easier to spot — VS1 or better is recommended. Brilliant cuts (round, oval, cushion) hide inclusions better, making lower grades a smart value choice.

Pro Tip from Dave: Many of our clients — whether shopping in Scottsdale, Palm Desert, or online worldwide — focus on finding eye-clean diamonds (inclusions not visible to the naked eye). This gives you stunning beauty without paying for microscopic perfection.

Color

Diamond color refers to how much tint is present in a stone, graded on a scale from D (colorless) to Z (light yellow or brown).

• D–F (Colorless): Rare and icy white

• G–J (Near Colorless): Appear white to the naked eye; excellent value

• K–Z (Faint to Light Color): Warmer tones, often beautifully paired with yellow gold settings

Tip: Round diamonds hide color better than step cuts, allowing you to choose slightly lower color grades without compromising beauty.

Our Philosophy: Beauty Within Your Budget

While some in the industry still reference the “two months’ salary rule,” we believe the only rule that matters is your comfort and pride in your purchase. At Desert Wholesale Diamond, we specialize in working with a variety of budgets to help you get the most sparkle for your investment.

Our brokers emphasize how the diamond looks to your eyes, not just on a grading chart. If you love the brilliance and presence of your diamond, that’s what truly counts.

Why Choose Desert Wholesale Diamond?

At Diamond Dave's Desert Wholesale Diamond, we bring decades of expertise from a 4th-generation jeweler to help you create jewelry that’s as unique as you are. With showrooms in Scottsdale, AZ and Palm Desert, CA — and virtual consultations for clients worldwide — we’re proud to serve every style and budget. Whether you’re designing a custom engagement ring, a necklace, earrings, or another meaningful piece, our Custom Ring Builder and design team make the process seamless and personal. Book an appointment today and let us help you bring your vision to life.