diamond guide, diamantguide
diamond guide, diamantguide

Diamond Guide


Choosing a diamond jewelry piece is a decision that often stays with you for a lifetime. That is why it is valuable to understand what determines a diamond’s quality and value. In our diamond guide, we explain the diamond’s 4Cs, natural diamonds, conflict-free diamonds, and international certifications such as GIA.

At A.P. Shaps, we work exclusively with carefully selected natural diamonds that meet our high standards for quality, ethics, and craftsmanship. This guide will help you understand the four key factors behind a diamond’s beauty, character, and value.

The 4Cs of Diamonds


Understanding the 4Cs makes it easier to compare diamonds and make an informed choice. At A.P. Shaps, we work exclusively with natural diamonds that meet our high quality standards.
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Learn More About Natural Diamonds


For those who do not work with diamonds, it can be difficult to see the difference between two stones at first glance. At the same time, the price difference can be significant. When you understand the diamond’s 4Cs, carat, color, clarity, and cut, it becomes easier to understand what affects a diamond’s quality and value. All our diamonds are natural and conflict-free, and diamonds of 0.30 carat and above come with an internationally recognized GIA certificate.

1, Carat


Carat (ct) is the unit of weight used for gemstones and describes how much a diamond actually weighs. It is one of the diamond’s 4Cs. One carat equals 0.2 grams and is divided into 100 points. In general, a diamond’s value increases with its carat weight. A larger diamond is rarer than a smaller diamond, which is why a one-carat diamond is generally more valuable than four diamonds of 0.25 carat each, assuming they are of the same quality. Read more about Carat

2, Cut


Cut is the only one of the diamond’s 4Cs that is influenced by human craftsmanship. While a diamond’s carat, color, and clarity are natural characteristics, the cut is the result of the diamond cutter’s skill and precision.

Through careful craftsmanship, the diamond’s proportions, symmetry, and polish are optimized to refract and reflect light in the best possible way. A well-cut diamond offers maximum brilliance, fire, and scintillation, the qualities that allow a diamond to return light in an exceptional way.

This is why cut is often considered the most important of the 4Cs, as it has the greatest impact on a diamond’s visual appearance, sparkle, and overall beauty. read more about cut

3, Color


Color is one of the diamond’s 4Cs and is graded on an international color scale from D to Z for white diamonds. This scale is used only for white diamonds, while naturally colored diamonds are graded according to a different system.

A diamond with a D color grade is completely colorless and represents the highest color quality. The further down the scale you go, the more visible the diamond’s natural color tone becomes. Since colorless diamonds are rarer, they are also the most sought-after and generally have a higher value.

Keep in mind that diamonds with an E color grade and lower may have brown or green undertones. These undertones are not shown on the certificate but can affect the diamond’s appearance. This is why it is important to choose a jeweler who carefully selects each diamond. Read more about color

4, Clarity


Clarity is one of the diamond’s 4Cs and describes the presence of natural inclusions and external characteristics. Almost all diamonds have some form of inclusion that was created during the diamond’s natural growth. These can be white or black and may vary in size, number, and position.


When diamond clarity is graded, factors such as the size, location, and visibility of the inclusions are assessed. The fewer and smaller the inclusions, the cleaner the diamond appears, which can contribute to a more beautiful overall impression.


Clarity also affects a diamond’s value, and the location of its inclusions is shown on the diamond’s certificate.

Read more about clarity

Get Personal Guidance and Expert Advice


Do you have questions about diamond quality or need help choosing an engagement ring? You are warmly welcome to book a personal appointment at our boutique on Strandvägen in Stockholm.

At A.P. Shaps, our experts guide you through the diamond’s 4Cs and help you find the right diamond, engagement ring, or piece of jewelry based on your wishes. If you have questions that were not answered in our diamond guide, you can always book a consultation with us. Book An Appointment