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.

D – F: Colourless

Visual Appearance: Absolutely no body colour. It looks completely icy and clear like pure water.
Setting & Buying Strategy: The rarest and most expensive. Best set in platinum or white gold to showcase its absolute colourlessness.

G – J: Near Colourless

Visual Appearance: Appears colourless face-up in jewellery. A tiny hint of warmth is only visible side-by-side with a colourless stone.
Setting & Buying Strategy: The ultimate value sweet spot. Looks identical to colourless stones to the naked eye once mounted, but costs much less.

K – M: Slightly Tinted

Visual Appearance: A faint, warm yellow or soft brownish undertone is visible to the untrained eye.
Setting & Buying Strategy: Excellent when paired with yellow gold or rose gold, which beautifully complements and masks the stone's warm tint.

N – R: Very Light

Visual Appearance: A distinct, noticeable yellow or brown tint is easily visible, even when the diamond is mounted.
Setting & Buying Strategy: Great for buyers who love a warm, vintage look or a budget-friendly "champagne" aesthetic.

S – Z: Light

Visual Appearance: Prominent, highly visible yellow or light brown colour in all lighting conditions.
Setting & Buying Strategy: The lowest end of the white diamond scale, offering a very affordable entry point for soft yellow stones.