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When shopping for a diamond—whether for an engagement ring or a timeless piece of fine jewelry—understanding the 4 Cs is essential. These four characteristics, established by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), determine a diamond’s beauty, brilliance, and value:
Cut isn’t about a diamond’s shape (like round or oval); it refers to how well the diamond’s facets interact with light. A well-cut diamond captures and reflects light beautifully, producing the fire and brilliance that make diamonds so mesmerizing.
Pro Tip: Even a large-carat diamond can look dull if poorly cut. Prioritize cut quality to maximize sparkle and visual impact.
Diamonds are graded on a scale from D (colorless) to Z (light yellow or brown). The less color a diamond has, the more rare and valuable it is. That said, many near-colorless diamonds look stunning—especially when paired with the right setting.
At Midtown Jewelers, we help you balance color and budget, so your diamond looks radiant without overspending.
Clarity measures the presence of inclusions (internal characteristics) and blemishes (surface imperfections). Ranging from Flawless (FL) to Included (I), most diamonds have some imperfections—but many are invisible to the naked eye.
Our expert gemologists guide you toward eye-clean diamonds that offer flawless beauty without paying for perfection you can’t see.
Carat weight measures a diamond’s size, but two diamonds of equal weight can appear very different depending on cut and shape. A well-cut diamond often looks larger and more brilliant than a heavier, poorly cut one.
At Midtown Jewelers, we help you get the most value—sometimes recommending slightly lower carat weights to enhance the diamond’s overall look and sparkle.
Finding the right diamond is all about balance—between the 4 Cs and your personal style. At Midtown Jewelers, we make the experience simple and enjoyable, offering expert guidance and hand-selected diamonds that meet the highest standards.
Visit us in Herndon or schedule a consultation to explore our curated collection and find the perfect stone for your love story.