How to Sell and Buy Diamonds: Common Questions Answered

Carat

Carat refers to the diamond’s weight rather than its physical size. A 1-carat diamond is a classic choice, but slightly smaller stones (such as 0.90 carats) can appear nearly identical while offering better value.

Clarity

Natural inclusions are common in diamonds, but most are invisible to the naked eye. Opt for diamonds in the VS1-VS2 clarity range to strike the perfect balance between quality and price.

Color

Diamonds are graded from D (colorless) to Z (light yellow or brown). Near-colorless diamonds (grades G-H) offer incredible beauty at a more affordable price.

Cut

The cut impacts a diamond’s sparkle more than any other factor. Always prioritize Excellent or Ideal cut diamonds for maximum brilliance.

Always Buy Certified Diamonds

To ensure authenticity and quality, only buy diamonds certified by a reputable gemological laboratory like the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) or the American Gem Society (AGS). Certification provides peace of mind that you’re getting exactly what you’re paying for.

Choose a Reputable Jeweler

Not all jewelers are created equal. Here’s how to ensure you’re shopping with a trusted expert.

• Reputation & Reviews: Look for jewelers with stellar customer reviews and industry recognition.
• Return Policies & Warranties: A trustworthy jeweler will offer a solid return policy and warranty to protect your purchase.
• Transparency: A good jeweler will provide clear details about the diamond’s specifications and origins.

Natural vs. Lab Grown Diamonds: Know the Difference

When purchasing a diamond, it’s crucial to understand the difference between natural diamonds and laboratory grown diamonds (also called lab grown diamonds or synthetic diamonds).

Natural diamonds are formed over billions of years deep within the Earth, making each one unique. They are rare miracles of nature, hold their value over time, and are often considered an investment.

Lab grown diamonds are mass-produced in controlled factory environments and lack the rarity of natural diamonds. While they may look similar, they don’t carry the same value as natural diamonds. The value of lab grown diamonds has decreased 80% in the last few years.

Consider Other Diamond Shapes

While round diamonds are the most popular, other shapes like oval, cushion, pear, or emerald cuts are just as beautiful and can be more budget-friendly. These alternative shapes often appear larger per carat and can provide a distinctive look. Choosing a less conventional shape can also help you maximize value without compromising on style.

Verify Sparkle in Different Lighting

Before finalizing a purchase, view the diamond in multiple lighting conditions—daylight, jewelry store lighting, and dim settings—to ensure it maintains its brilliance.

Ask About Diamond Fluorescence

Fluorescence is a natural characteristic that makes some diamonds glow under UV light. While faint to medium fluorescence can enhance a diamond’s appearance, strong fluorescence can sometimes cause a hazy look. Ask your jeweler about fluorescence and inspect the diamond in various lighting conditions. 

Get Your Diamond Insured

Once you buy diamonds, safeguarding your investment with the right insurance is essential. While you can add your jewelry to a homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policy, these plans often have coverage limits and may not fully reimburse you for a high-value diamond. A specialized jewelry insurance plan is the best option for expensive pieces, as it typically offers higher coverage limits, worldwide protection, and reimbursement for full appraised value in case of loss, theft, or damage.

Understand Return & Upgrade Policies

A reputable jeweler should offer a return policy in case you change your mind. Many jewelers also provide lifetime upgrade programs, allowing you to trade in your diamond for a larger or higher-quality stone in the future.

Understand Your Diamond’s Value

Before selling, have your diamond appraised by a certified gemologist or independent appraiser to determine its market value. Knowing the 4Cs of your diamond will also help in negotiating a fair price.

Where to Sell Diamonds

• Reputable Jewelers: Many jewelers buy pre-owned diamonds and may offer store credit or cash.
• Auction Houses: For high-value or rare diamonds, auction houses can attract serious buyers.
• Online Diamond Buyers: Some reputable online platforms specialize in purchasing diamonds and offer competitive prices.
• Pawnshops & Local Dealers: While convenient, these options may offer lower prices compared to specialized diamond buyers.

Get Multiple Offers

Always obtain multiple offers before finalizing a sale. Prices can vary significantly depending on the buyer’s evaluation and demand for your particular diamond.