4Cs
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Definition
The four universally recognized criteria used to evaluate and grade diamonds: Color, Clarity, Cut, and Carat weight.
Detailed Explanation
The 4Cs framework was developed by GIA founder Robert M. Shipley in the 1940s as an educational tool and formalized into an international grading standard by GIA. Color in diamonds is graded D (colorless) to Z (light yellow or brown); beyond Z, stones enter the fancy color category. Clarity runs from FL to I3. Cut is graded Excellent to Poor based on proportions, symmetry, and polish. Carat weight is measured to the thousandth of a carat on precision balances. While the 4Cs were developed for diamonds, analogous quality factors are applied to colored gemstones, with color typically being the most important value driver for rubies, sapphires, and emeralds.