The 4Cs—cut, clarity, color, and carat (with the bonus “s” for shape)—are the fundamental attributes that determine a diamond’s quality and value. Educating yourself about these factors empowers you to make a confident choice. The cut affects how a diamond reflects light, clarity reveals its internal flaws, color determines its hue, and carat measures its weight. Shape is the fancy cut shape of the diamond, which can affect the look and the price of your diamond. By familiarizing yourself with these aspects, you can prioritize what matters most to you and make a selection that aligns with your preferences and budget.