The 4Cs – Understanding Gemstone Quality

The 4Cs – Carat, Cut, Colour and Clarity – are the internationally recognized criteria for evaluating gemstones. They define a stone’s quality, rarity, and ultimately its value.

• Carat refers to the weight of a gemstone. One carat equals 0.2 grams. The higher the carat weight, the rarer – and typically more valuable – the gem.

• Cut determines the brilliance and overall appearance. A precise cut enhances light reflection and highlights the gem’s shape and colour.

• Colour varies by gemstone. For coloured gems such as tourmaline, spinel or aquamarine, both the depth, saturation and evenness of colour are evaluated.

• Clarity describes the presence of internal characteristics or inclusions. The fewer the inclusions, the rarer and more valuable the stone – though natural inclusions can also be a mark of authenticity.

These four criteria are the foundation of gemstone selection at Max Semler Goldschmied – with a commitment to working only with exceptional, one-of-a-kind pieces.