Today’s discerning diamond purchaser needs to understand the traditional four Cs of diamonds. But these standards have been joined by an equally-important C: certification.
A diamond’s certificate does not give the monetary value of the stone. But it does describe and evaluate the critical factors that affect the diamond’s quality, beauty and value. Even diamond experts rely on certification to verify their purchases.
A certificate is also useful if a diamond is lost or stolen. Certification will help ensure that the stone is replaced with a diamond of equal quality.
Look for this information on a reliable diamond certificate:
Date of the report
Unique identification number
Issuer of the report
Origin
Carat weight
Shape and cut
Measurements
Proportions
Clarity and color grades
Fluorescence
Take the time to understand a certificate, but remember that it can’t take the place of a visual inspection of the diamond you are considering. Some diamonds are beautiful even if they don’t shine on paper.
Remember that diamond certificates are not guarantees, valuations or appraisals. Professional labs employ experienced graders and use the most accurate instruments. However, they make no warranties regarding the accuracy of their certificates. Diamond grading is both an art and a science.