Diamond Guide
Choosing a diamond is a meaningful decision. At JCO Diamonds, we believe an informed choice leads to a confident purchase. Our Diamond Guide is designed to help you understand what truly matters when selecting a diamond — from quality and craftsmanship to ethics and care.
The 4Cs of Diamonds
The value and beauty of a diamond are determined by four key factors known as the 4Cs.
Carat
Carat refers to the weight of a diamond, not its size. Larger diamonds are rarer, but carat weight should always be balanced with cut, color, and clarity for maximum visual impact.
Clarity
Clarity measures the presence of natural inclusions or blemishes within a diamond. Most inclusions are microscopic and do not affect a diamond’s beauty to the naked eye.
Grades: FL, IF, VVS, VS, SI, I
Our experts ensure every diamond meets our standards for brilliance and durability.
Colour
Diamond color refers to how colorless a diamond appears. The most valuable diamonds are colorless, allowing maximum light reflection.
Grades: D (colorless) to Z (light yellow or brown)
At JCO Diamonds, we carefully select diamonds that offer the best balance of beauty and value.
Cut
Cut is the most important factor influencing a diamond’s brilliance and sparkle. A well-cut diamond reflects light beautifully, creating exceptional fire and brilliance. Even a high-quality diamond can appear dull if the cut is poor. Grades: Excellent, Very Good, Good, Fair, Poor
The Different Diamond Shapes
Oval
Elegant and elongated, the Oval shape creates the illusion of greater size and enhances finger length. It combines the brilliance of a round diamond with a distinctive, graceful silhouette.
Cushion
Known for its soft, rounded corners and pillow-like shape, the Cushion cut blends vintage charm with modern brilliance. It is loved for its romantic appeal and warm sparkle.
Princess
Modern and bold, the Princess cut features sharp corners and exceptional brilliance. It offers a contemporary look while maintaining impressive sparkle, perfect for those who prefer clean, geometric lines.
Pear
A unique blend of round and marquise shapes, the Pear cut offers a graceful teardrop silhouette. It creates a flattering, elongating effect and makes a bold yet elegant statement.
Emerald
Sophisticated and understated, the Emerald cut features long, step-cut facets that highlight clarity and depth rather than sparkle. It is ideal for those who appreciate refined elegance and timeless design.
Marquise
With its elongated shape and pointed ends, the Marquise cut maximizes perceived size and creates a dramatic look. It is perfect for those seeking a distinctive and eye-catching design.
Asscher
The Asscher cut is known for its deep step facets and square shape, offering a vintage Art Deco feel. Its hall-of-mirrors effect creates a striking and elegant appearance.
Radiant
Combining the elegance of an Emerald shape with the brilliance of a Round cut, the Radiant features trimmed corners and vibrant sparkle. It is a versatile choice with a modern edge.
Heart
A symbol of love and romance, the Heart shape is both meaningful and distinctive. When expertly cut, it offers beautiful brilliance and a truly personal expression of emotion.
Diamond FAQ
The 4Cs — Cut, Color, Clarity, and Carat — are the global standards used to evaluate a diamond’s quality and value. Understanding how these factors work together helps you choose a diamond that best suits your style and budget.
Cut has the greatest impact on a diamond’s sparkle. A well-cut diamond, especially a Round Brilliant cut, reflects light exceptionally well, creating maximum brilliance and fire.
Yes. Lab-grown diamonds are chemically, physically, and visually identical to natural diamonds. The only difference is their origin — lab-grown diamonds are created using advanced technology, while natural diamonds are formed within the Earth over billions of years.
The choice depends on personal preference, budget, and values. Natural diamonds are rare and formed naturally over time, while lab-grown diamonds offer a more sustainable and accessible option with the same brilliance and durability.
Diamonds in the VS or SI clarity range often offer excellent value, as inclusions are usually not visible to the naked eye while maintaining beauty and durability for daily wear.
Not always. Carat refers to weight, not quality. A smaller diamond with an excellent cut can appear more brilliant and visually larger than a heavier diamond with a poor cut.
Yes. All JCO Diamonds are certified by internationally recognized laboratories such as GIA and IGI, ensuring authenticity, transparency, and quality assurance.
Certification provides an independent assessment of a diamond’s characteristics and quality. It ensures you know exactly what you are purchasing and protects your investment.
Yes. JCO Diamonds works with trusted suppliers who follow ethical sourcing practices and comply with international standards to ensure responsible and conflict-free diamonds.
Clean your diamond regularly with mild soap and warm water, avoid harsh chemicals, store pieces separately, and schedule professional cleaning and inspections to maintain brilliance and longevity.
Diamond shape is a personal choice influenced by style, hand shape, and lifestyle. Our experts are happy to guide you in selecting a shape that best reflects your personality and preferences.
Absolutely. Our diamond specialists are available to answer your questions and guide you through every step, ensuring you make a confident and informed decision.