The 4Cs
Understanding Diamond Quality
When choosing a diamond engagement ring, understanding the 4Cs of diamonds — Cut, Colour, Clarity and Carat — is
essential. These four characteristics determine the beauty, brilliance and
value of a diamond.
The 4Cs grading system was originally
developed by the Gemological Institute of America and is now used
internationally by leading grading laboratories such as the International
Gemological Institute.
At Elysium Diamonds, we use the 4Cs to ensure every diamond meets an
exceptional standard of quality, brilliance and craftsmanship.
Clarity
I.F. – Internally Flawless
Under 10x Magnification: Absolutely no internal inclusions; only tiny, polished-out surface blemishes may be visible to a highly skilled grader.
Eye Clean: 100% eye clean. Extremely rare and highly prized.
VVS1 – VVS2: Very Very Slightly Included
Under 10x Magnification: Microscopic inclusions that are exceptionally difficult for even a professional grader to find under magnification.
Eye Clean: 100% eye clean. Indistinguishable from flawless to the naked eye.
VS1 – VS2: Very Slightly Included
Under 10x Magnification: Minor, small inclusions (like tiny feathers or crystals) that can be spotted under magnification with some effort.
Eye Clean: 99% eye clean. The safest "value buy", where inclusions are practically invisible without a microscope.
SI1 – SI2: Slightly Included
Under 10x Magnification: Noticeable inclusions (like dark carbon spots or clouds) that are easy to locate under 10x magnification.
Eye Clean: Commonly eye clean (SI1), occasionally visible (SI2). In SI2 stones, inclusions may be spotted from the side or top by an untrained eye.
I1 – I3: Included
Under 10x Magnification: Obvious, large, or numerous inclusions that are easily visible under magnification and to the naked eye.
Eye Clean: Not eye clean. Inclusions can block light paths, noticeably reducing the diamond's brilliance and even threatening its structural integrity.
