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Diamond Certification
Certification and appraisals have become more pertinent in today's market with diamond buyers becoming increasingly more knowledgeable and savvy. Increasing technologies and opportunities for enhancements and scams in diamonds also make certification and appraisal more necessary. Be prepared to enlist the assistance of a diamond certificate and an independent appraiser as an essential part of your diamond purchase.
A diamond certificate or diamond grading report details all the most important aspects of a diamond, including its cut, color, clarity and carat weight, as well as finish: polish and symmetry, and fluorescence. A diamond certificate confirms that the diamond has received a full, unbiased evaluation by a trained, professional gemologist and that the description given by the seller matches the actual characteristics of the stone.
A buyer should insist of reviewing a diamond certificate that has been provided by an independent third party certification lab such as ABCG, with up-to-date information. The report must be laminated to ensure that the information cannot be altered to boost the grades and quality description of the diamond. Certificates should accompany a loose diamond or diamond jewelry, and a certified gemologist should be able to answer any questions about the diamond, such as the ones detailed in this article, according to the details of the report.
Diamond Appraisals
Diamond appraisals tie up any loose ends in a diamond purchase, confirming still that the characteristics of the purchased diamond match not only the description given by the seller but also the description on the diamond certificate. An appraisal will establish the retail value of the diamond or jewelry and will detail any information about the diamond that is not on its certificate. Any questions not directed to a seller or on-store gemologist are to be directed to an appraiser. A buyer should expect to have the following questions answered during an appraisal.
- Is the diamond real?
- Has the diamond received any treatments, permanent or temporary?
- Is the diamond I paid for the diamond I received?
- Is the diamond in accordance with the information on the diamond certificate?
- Is the diamond certificate authentic and unaltered?
- Does the diamond have any damage other than blemishes or inclusions?
- Does the diamond certificate provide all the information necessary to make an informed decision?
- What is the retail value of the diamond?
Be sure that the seller allows at least 30-days for a full refund in order to have enough time for your diamond or jewelry to be appraised. However, you should take your diamond in for appraisal soon after purchase. Take your diamond or jewelry to an independent appraiser such as ABCG for an impartial and unbiased opinion.