Understand Certificates

1. Two diamonds (certified by the same gem lab) with identical weight, color and clarity are invariably ‘not equal’ in value. One could be worth considerably more than the other. 

There are many aspects to a diamond beyond the information provided in a diamond certificate including the GIA.

2. Diamond laboratories certify any diamond submitted for grading whether they are beautiful or not. The laboratory function is simply to record weight, measurements and provide an opinion on color and clarity. 

3. Color and clarity grades are not an exact science and grades can change if the same stone is submitted to the same laboratory more than once.

4. Inclusion location, size and type influence value. Stones with black center inclusions or inclusions are less valuable than diamonds with delicate inclusions off to the side. 

5. For the same value one may select a larger diamond rather than a smaller [finer quality] stone and succeed in owning a beautiful, brilliant diamond that is a sound investment. 

6. Diamonds cut correctly have the same brilliance [refractive index] irrespective of color and clarity grades. 

7. Fluorescence decreases the value of a diamond in proportion to effect on brilliance (if any.)

 Very strong fluorescence should be avoided. Faint or medium fluorescence has little impact on value and actually enhances color and value in medium and lower color grades.

8. Carat weight is most buyers top priority and cutters tend to leave weight on diamonds in undesirable places. This practice makes diamonds heavier, but not larger where it counts [face size]… and often impacts brilliance.    

There is a great deal to know and share about this most intriguing and brilliant of gemstones… Place yourself in good hands when making this important purchase.