Cut
Cut describes craftsmanship and interaction with light. Shape describes the outline, such as round, oval or emerald. Check which cut assessment the issuing laboratory provides for that shape.
DIAMOND KNOWLEDGE
Brilliance, understood.
A practical introduction to the details that make each diamond different.
Start with the 4Cs
Source: GIA →Colour
Colour is one report characteristic. Examine the diamond under appropriate lighting and in its intended setting. Compare like report systems.
Clarity
Read the characteristics in the report and inspect the stone. Ask the jeweller to explain what can be seen and whether any characteristic affects your intended use.
Carat weight
Carat measures mass. Face-up dimensions, proportions and shape also influence how large a stone appears. Compare dimensions as well as weight.
ORIGIN IS PART OF THE DESCRIPTION
Natural and laboratory-grown
Both are diamond material, with essentially the same chemical, physical and optical properties. Their growth origins differ; reliable identification requires appropriate laboratory methods.
Source: GIA →| Consideration | Natural | Laboratory-grown |
|---|---|---|
| Formation | Formed through geological processes | Grown using a technological process |
| Identification | Ask for the laboratory’s natural-diamond identification | Ask for clear laboratory-grown disclosure and any treatments |
| Documentation | Check grading and any separate source evidence | Check identification and any production claims |
| Quote comparison | Compare origin, shape, weight, report details, total cost and seller terms. A price-per-carat figure does not establish quality or value. | |
Before you decide
Inspect the actual stone
Images and reports are useful, but cannot capture every aspect of appearance. Ask for a suitable inspection opportunity.
Check the report
Use the laboratory’s own service and have the stone’s identity checked. Online lookup alone cannot authenticate a diamond.
Source: GIA →Read the terms
Understand returns, setting costs, aftercare, delivery and the seller’s written description before paying.
THE NEXT STEP
Put the details side by side.
Use figures from two actual quotations in the same currency.