The Four C's,
+ One
Carat. Cut. Colour. Clarity. And the fifth that underwrites them all.
Graded under 10× magnification: FL, IF, VVS, VS, SI, I.
Most VS2 and SI1 stones are eye-clean once mounted. Step cuts—emerald, asscher—demand VS1 or above.
GIA D–Z scale. D–F colourless, G–H near-colourless, I–J faint warmth.
Assessed face-down, against white, under D65 daylight.
The only variable controlled by hand. The one that governs every other.
Excellent cuts return nearly all light. Shallow leaks. Deep traps. Both appear dull.
A measure of weight: 1ct = 0.20g. Diameter scales non-linearly; price, exponentially.
A well-cut 1.00ct outperforms a poorly cut 1.50ct.
GIA or IGI certification. Independent. Non-negotiable.
Evidence, not marketing. Plus a house that stands behind every grade.