Diamond Purchase Calculator – 4Cs Price Estimator
Estimate diamond prices based on carat, cut, color, and clarity
How to Use
- Enter the carat weight of the diamond
- Select the cut quality grade
- Choose the color grade (D-J scale)
- Select the clarity grade
- Click calculate to see the estimated price
Understanding the 4Cs of Diamonds
The 4Cs - Carat, Cut, Color, and Clarity - are the universal standard for assessing diamond quality and value. Each factor significantly impacts the diamond's appearance and price.
Carat Weight
Carat refers to a diamond's weight, with one carat equal to 200 milligrams. Larger diamonds are exponentially more valuable as they're rarer. The price per carat increases significantly at certain weight milestones (0.5, 1.0, 2.0 carats).
Cut Quality
Cut determines how well a diamond reflects light, affecting its brilliance and sparkle. An excellent cut can make a diamond appear larger and more brilliant, while a poor cut can make even a large diamond look dull.
Color Grade
Diamond color is graded from D (colorless) to Z (light yellow/brown). The less color in a white diamond, the higher its value. D-F are colorless, G-J are near colorless, and most people cannot distinguish between these grades without expert training.
Clarity Grade
Clarity refers to the absence of inclusions (internal) and blemishes (external). Grades range from Flawless (FL) to Included (I3). Most inclusions are microscopic and don't affect the diamond's beauty to the naked eye. VS2 and SI1 grades often offer excellent value.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Which of the 4Cs is most important?
- Cut quality is generally considered the most important factor as it most affects a diamond's beauty and sparkle. However, the best choice depends on personal priorities and budget. Many experts recommend prioritizing cut, then carat, and balancing color and clarity based on preference.
- What's the best value in diamond purchasing?
- The best value often comes from choosing slightly below major carat milestones (e.g., 0.9 instead of 1.0 carats), selecting VS2-SI1 clarity (eye-clean but less expensive), and choosing near-colorless grades (G-H) which look colorless when mounted.
- Should I always buy certified diamonds?
- Yes, always purchase certified diamonds from reputable labs like GIA or AGS. Certification provides independent verification of the 4Cs and protects your investment. The certification cost is minimal compared to the diamond's value.
- How accurate is this price estimate?
- This calculator provides a general estimate based on standard pricing factors. Actual prices vary significantly based on the specific diamond, certification, retailer markup, market conditions, and additional factors like fluorescence and polish. Use this as a starting point and always compare prices from multiple certified sources.