4Cs of Diamonds

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THE 4C’S OF LAB  GROWN DIAMONDS

Lab-grown diamonds are graded on the same scale as natural counterparts and have a similar spectrum of colors, inclusions, cuts, and sizes.

Color

Color is graded by how little tint a diamond shows. Lab-grown diamonds can sometimes develop a faint yellow or brown hue during growth, which can lower the color grade. The most popular choices are typically D–H, where the diamond appears bright and near-colorless. Natural diamonds are graded the same way, though warmer tones are sometimes more accepted in mined stones due to price.

Clarity

Clarity measures internal inclusions and surface features that can affect transparency and sparkle. Both lab-grown and natural diamonds can have inclusions, which vary in size and visibility. The GIA evaluates these characteristics to assign a clarity grade; in lab-grown diamonds they’re often described as “growth remnants” from the creation process. In natural diamonds, inclusions like feathers may occur and can impact durability depending on placement.

Cut

Cut controls how well a diamond reflects light—driving brilliance and sparkle. Lab-grown diamonds are cut and polished using the same standards as natural diamonds, across round and fancy shapes. Round diamonds receive a cut grade based on proportions, symmetry, and polish, while fancy shapes are judged mainly by overall visual performance. A premium cut in either type can reduce hidden weight and maximize light return.

Carat

Carat is the measurement used to describe a diamond’s weight—and it’s often the first number shoppers focus on. One carat equals 200 milligrams, and diamonds are also commonly described in “points” (100 points = 1.00 carat). Carat matters for pricing and comparison, but it doesn’t always tell you how large a diamond will look once it’s on the hand.
 
That’s because carat weight doesn’t automatically equal visual size. Two diamonds can weigh the same yet look different from the top depending on cut and proportions. A diamond cut too deep may hide weight underneath, making it appear smaller face-up. A well-cut diamond spreads its weight across the top more effectively, often looking larger and delivering more sparkle at the same carat weight.
 
Carat can also look different across shapes. Elongated cuts like oval or marquise may appear larger than a round diamond of equal carat because of their outline. Since lab-grown and natural diamonds are measured the same way, carat is an easy comparison point—but for the best result, balance it with cut quality and top-down dimensions (millimeter measurements).