Jewellery Guide
Diamond Guide
Understand the 4 Cs, certifications, and everything you need to make a confident diamond purchase.
The 4 Cs of Diamonds
Every diamond is evaluated on four internationally recognised characteristics — Cut, Colour, Clarity, and Carat. Together, these determine a diamond's quality and value.
Cut refers to how well a diamond's facets interact with light. A well-cut diamond appears brighter and more brilliant regardless of its size. Grades range from Excellent to Poor — always choose Excellent or Very Good for maximum sparkle.
Tip: Prioritise cut above all other Cs for the most beautiful diamond.
Colour measures the absence of colour in a diamond. The scale runs from D (completely colourless) to Z (noticeable yellow or brown tint). D–F are considered colourless, G–J near-colourless and very good value.
Tip: G or H colour looks colourless to the naked eye and costs less than D–F.
Clarity evaluates internal inclusions and external blemishes formed during the diamond's creation. Grades range from Flawless (FL) to Included (I3). VS1–VS2 and VVS1–VVS2 are excellent choices — inclusions are invisible to the naked eye.
Tip: VS2 or SI1 offer great value — eye-clean with no visible inclusions.
Carat measures a diamond's weight (1 carat = 0.2 grams). Larger diamonds are rarer and cost more per carat. A superior cut can make a diamond appear larger than its actual carat weight.
Tip: A well-cut 0.9ct diamond looks bigger than a poorly cut 1ct diamond.
Diamond Certification
A diamond certificate (also called a grading report) is an independent assessment of your diamond's quality by a certified gemological laboratory. Always insist on a certificate before buying.
Gemological Institute of America
The world's most trusted diamond certification authority. GIA pioneered the 4Cs grading system and is considered the global gold standard for accuracy and reliability.
International Gemological Institute
One of the largest independent labs with a strong presence in India and Europe. IGI reports are widely accepted by retailers and buyers across India.
Solitaire Gemological Laboratories
Highly trusted in India's retail jewellery market. Reliable and transparent grading at competitive prices, popular among Indian buyers.
How to Read a Diamond Certificate
Smart Buying Tips
- Always ask for a grading report from GIA, IGI, or SGL before purchasing
- Prioritise cut quality — it has the most impact on how beautiful a diamond looks
- G or H colour and VS2 or SI1 clarity offer excellent value without visible compromise
- Verify the certificate number on the lab's official website to confirm authenticity
- A superior cut can make a smaller carat diamond look larger and brighter
- Check that the BIS hallmark is on the gold setting alongside the diamond certificate
Our Promise to You
Every diamond jewellery piece at Shree Gajanand Jewellers comes with a certified grading report. We only source diamonds that meet strict quality standards, ensuring every stone you receive is exactly as described.