1. Know Your 4 “C’s”

Color, Cut, Carat weight, and Clarity are the main factors to consider when buying or selling a diamond.

• Color   The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) grades the color of a diamond using a letter scale of D through Z.  Quite simply, the less coloring in your diamond, the higher the rating.  A “D” graded diamond is colorless, while a “Z” grade is quite yellow.  This scale does not include “Fancy Yellow” diamonds, which have their own designation due to their heavy yellow color.
• Carat Weight    Unlike “Karats” used in measuring purity in gold, these carats are used to measure the size and weight of your diamond.  Larger diamonds will naturally command a higher price tag than smaller ones.
• Cut Quality      Cut quality is usually determined by three factors – symmetry, cut proportions, and finish, or polish.  A well cut diamond will sparkle and exude a certain brilliance traditionally associated with diamonds.
• Clarity   Most diamonds have small flaws in them, called inclusions.  These are usually caused as the diamond crystal is formed and small bits of mineral become trapped inside the diamond.  Other blemishes such as polishing lines and chips in the surface also contribute to determining the clarity of a diamond.  The GIA grades diamond clarity using 11 designations, listed below.
  • FL(flawless)  No inclusions or blemishes visible at magnification of 10x and are considered flawless.
  • IF (internally flawless) No inclusions visible in the diamond at 10x magnification, however, there may be slight blemishing visible at 10x, such as light polishing lines.
  • VVS1/VVS2   (very, very slightly included)  These 2 designations refer to diamonds which have 1 or 2 very small inclusions, barely visible by a trained eye at 10x magnification.
  • VS1/VS2 (very slightly included)  Inclusions in these diamonds are considered minor, and visible with 10x magnification only.
  • SI1/SI2  (slightly included) These inclusions are readily seen under 10x magnification.
  • I1/I2/I3 (included)  Inclusions of this size may interfere with the reflection and brilliance of the diamond.

As with all precious metals and gems, make sure you’re dealing with an experienced professional.  At Quakertown Gold and Coin Buyers, we like to make all our quotes and offers right in front of you.  This ensures that you get a fair quote and offer for your diamond.