The 4 C’s stand for Carat, Cut, Clarity and Color. They were introduced in the 1940’s and 50’s  as a universal standardized system to grade diamonds. The 4 C’s were developed  in order to compare and evaluate the quality of diamonds. Although there are more advanced properties you need to look for when purchasing a diamond, the 4 C’s offer a basic outline for most people to understand what factors can influence the value of their diamond. The 4 C’s are different properties of the stone that help determine the value of the stone. Different characteristics will have different effects on the value and the combination of each factor will affect the price. For example, 2 stones that have the same color and carat weight with varying degrees of clarity will be valued at very different price points. As you learn more about the 4 C’s you will be able to determine how each one affects the way a diamond looks as well as the value, and you can determine what is important to you when you are ready to make your purchase.