1) Understand the 4C diamond quality standards
These basics not only demystify diamond quality, but also help you understand the value and price of diamonds.
- Diamond Color For most diamonds, color refers to the degree of colorlessness. The lighter the color of the diamond, the higher its value and price. Some of these differences are difficult to distinguish with the naked eye, but they will directly affect the overall quality and price of the diamond.
- Diamond clarity measures the number, size and location of diamond “inclusions” and “surface flaws”. The clarity grade range includes several grades from “flawless” (no flaws) to “included” (contains a lot of flaws).
- Diamond cut does not refer to the shape of the diamond, but to the proportion and arrangement of the diamond facets and the quality of craftsmanship. The brightness, scintillation and fire of the diamond are determined by the cut. The cut grade includes several grades from “excellent” to “poor”.
- Diamond carat refers to the weight of a diamond. Generally speaking, the larger the carat weight, the more expensive the diamond. However, if two diamonds have the same carat weight, the quality grade and price of the two diamonds may be very different when considering the other three criteria (color, clarity and cut).
No matter how beautiful a diamond may look, it does not represent its true quality. The 4Cs of diamond quality will give you information about the true quality of a diamond.
2) Choose your jeweler as you would your doctor.
Your jeweler should be professionally trained, willing to answer questions, and able to provide answers in simple, clear language.
Professional training will help you assess the jeweler’s knowledge level. The best jeweler’s training comes from a highly recognized, internationally accredited program, such as GIA’s Graduate Gemologist (GG) or Applied Jeweler (AJP) diploma programs. Professionally educated jewelers will not only explain the 4Cs of diamond quality , but also show you how similar-looking diamonds differ. They will also encourage you to compare different diamonds within your budget.
3) Insist on obtaining an appraisal certificate.
A diamond grading report from an impartial, objective scientific organization like GIA is not only important information, it is also a testament to the diamond you are purchasing. The differences between diamonds can be so subtle that even a trained jeweler may not be able to tell without a laboratory’s approval. So, always ask for a grading report of authoritative quality when purchasing a diamond.
4) Purchase Protection
Get your diamond appraised and insured. Appraisers and insurance companies rely on diamond grading reports to accurately assess the value of the gemstone. As an added measure, consider having the diamond laser inscribed with the GIA report number to provide verification in the event that the diamond is lost or stolen.
What is a GIA Graduate Gemologist (GG)?
Through the renowned GIA Graduate Gemologist diploma program, jewelers learn the scientific and technical knowledge required to work with the full range of diamonds and colored gemstones. The prestigious GIA GG designation appended to an individual’s name is recognized worldwide as a high-level professional in the jewelry industry.
What is an Applied Jeweler (AJP)?
The GIA Applied Jewelry Professional diploma is a professional development program designed for sales professionals that provides the foundational product knowledge needed to accurately present diamond information to customers.
