Monthly Archive: December 2014

Understanding the Clarity “C” of Diamonds

diamond calrity

Diamonds are one of the most precious stones on earth. Needless to say, one needs to be very careful and informed while making such a costly purchase. That being said, there are four factors that determine the quality, hence affect the value of a diamond. These four factors are collectively known as the 4 Cs.

The 4 Cs stands for:

  1. Cut
  2. Clarity
  3. Color
  4. Carat weight

This article talks about the second C that is clarity. Diamond clarity refers to the extent to which there are imperfections and blemishes in a particular diamond. A diamond that features major blemishes and inclusions is rated low on the diamond clarity scale. This is because such diamonds have flaws and interruptions that obstruct the path of light when passed through the particular diamond. As a result, this particular diamond will shine less when exposed to light. The location of the inclusion also affects the brilliance of a diamond. Expert diamond cutters go to great lengths to cut a diamond in such a way as to hide the inclusions present on it.

The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) has developed the 11 point diamond clarity scale on the basis of which the clarity of diamonds can be graded. GIA has considered several factors while devising this clarity chart. These include the number, color, size, reflectivity and the location of the inclusion or blemish that can be seen under ten times (10x) magnification.

Following is the GIA’s diamond clarity scale with explanations along with each grade:

FL (Flawless): It implies that the diamonds are absolutely free of any inclusions or blemishes.

IF (Internally Flawless): It means that the diamonds contain no inclusions, but there are certain blemishes that are visible under 10 x magnification.

VVS1, VVS2 (Very, Very Slightly Included): This implies that the diamonds contains some inclusions but they are difficult to be seen under 10 x magnification. The VVS1 inclusions can only be seen from the pavilion, while the VVS2 inclusions can be seen from the crown.

VS1, VS2 (Very Slightly Included): This clarity grade implies that the diamonds have inclusions that can clearly be seen under 10 x magnification, however these inclusions are very insignificant and can be marked as minor.

SI1, SI2 (Slightly Included): This clarity implies that the diamonds have noticeable inclusions that can be easily seen under 10 x magnification. The SI1 flaws are normally undetectable by the naked eye, whereas the SI2 flaws are generally visible to the naked eye.

I1, I2, I3 (Included): This implies that the diamonds contain obvious inclusions that are so major that they can affect the shine, transparency and brilliance of the particular diamond.

Don’t believe anyone when it comes to purchasing diamonds. It is a pricey decision. Stay informed and make your own choice.

The Importance Of Appraisals In Diamonds And Gemstones Transactions

The importance of a certified diamond and gemstones appraiser is increasing more and more in today’s changing market environment. Consumers are more educated and sophisticated, while diamonds are more and more expensive. That’s why it’s so important to know the exact value of a diamond and make the best use out of the information provided by an expert gemologist. Now a day, a diamond is not appraised only by clarity,color or weight, because there are plenty of other factors to be taken into consideration:

  • Did the diamond have any temporary or permanent treatments applied?
  • Is the stone a synthetic diamond, a real diamond, a color-altered one, loaded with filler or a plain fake?
  • Is the information stated in the documentation accurate?
  • Is there any damage to the diamond?
  • Is the diamond really cut correctly?

Given those factors and for a buyer’s own safety, it’s recommended to use a third party appraisal service in transactions involving diamonds or other gemstones, as a matter of fact. The only other things people buy without having a “list price” are houses, so it’s obvious diamonds are a big investment for any person. Appraisers are therefore needed to confirm these type of transactions.

Gemology is the science and art of gemstones. Certified gemologists have special training in grading of gems, especially diamonds. The appraisal process involves two important components: the authentication of an item and the assignment of an appropriate value.

Over the years, jewelry stores, pawn shops, auction houses or other types of businesses would make appraisals of their own, based on previous experiences and using charts, such as the Rapaport Diamond Report to establish their own prices. Of course, these appraisals are not accurate and the need for independent appraisers was obvious. A fair appraisal is beneficial for both the seller and the buyer, and using the services of an independent appraiser ensures exactly this. Appraisers don’t buy or sell jewelry at all, they are just providing their services, so they don’t have any interest in the outcome of the appraisal. This is something most diamond and gems shoppers found to be useful, as serious sellers allow a period of time from the moment of purchase to return them, time that can be used to get an evaluation from an independent appraiser to confirm the information provided by the seller, or to receive more details.

Depending on a client’s needs, an appraisers is able to provide retail replacement value reports (used to confirm the quality of a gemstone), establish market value and fair market value, sale prices and other types of evaluation, varying from liquidation appraisal, damage reports or collateral appraisal.

AGI New York (Accredited Gemological Institute) offers all the services involved in diamonds and gemstones transactions with the help of state-of-the-art technology. The AGI laboratory is able to deliver customized reports and a wide range of appraisal services. Even more, the AGI gemologists are available for training, through seminars covering topics in the industry from treated gemstones to synthetic ones, to prepare business staff in better selling certified diamonds. The institute’s reputation for meeting client’s timetables is unsurpassed, making it a priority to treat each client with prompt and individual attention.