What’s in Diamond Grading Reports?

So what’s in a diamond grading report from G.I.A?  Read below for info:

GIA’s International Diamond Grading System, along with GIA’s 4Cs of diamond grading, are used to deliver a comprehensive analysis of quality for diamonds in the D-to-Z color range, detailing shape, color, cutting quality, measurement, weight, proportions, finish and clarity.  Grading reports also contain important info. on any sort of treatments detected during the grading process.

While other labs issue similar reports, the GIA Diamond Grading Report has rightfully earned the reputation for unrivaled accuracy and integrity.  I will never purchase a diamond piece of jewelry without an accompanying report – there’s nothing else out there that can give you such solid assurance that you’re getting what you’re paying for.  To really drive the point home, GIA again, is a no-profit – it’s not affiliated with ANY commercial enterprise, so their goals are altruistic.  

 

Happy shopping!  And a Happy Valentine’s Day to everyone!

Strategies on finding the perfect engagement ring..

In regards to the last post that I made, I thought it would be wise to follow-up on it with more information on diamond rating and purchasing.  There’s a lot I could say here about it but I’ll try to keep it as concise and direct as possible!

 

1. Budget

Figure out how much exactly you are going to spend BEFORE shopping.  Most commonly, using two months worth of ones salary is considered appropriate.  Additionally, you should be thinking long and hard about the value and quality of the diamond you intend to buy.  The better prepared you are when going into the process, the less overwhelmed you’ll be when looking at rings.

 

2. Know your to-be spouse!!!!  Take the time to really look into what kinds of jewelry your fiance likes.  Feel free to ask their friends, but it’s easiest to go straight to the source!  This includes knowing ring size as well!

 

3. Learn the 4C’s like your life depends on it.  It’s the only way you’ll be able to look at rings and scrutinize them to a degree based on your own knowledge.  It’s a good feeling to know that you have some “expertise” on diamond rating, even if it’s just what the 4C’s are: cut, clarity, color, carat.  

4. Research your source and shop around.  Make sure wherever you are purchasing from is a reputable source.  They should be able to provide a third party grading report and offer a 30-day satisfaction guarantee with a full refund.  Look for stores with a GIA Graduate Gemologist, and don’t feel goofy asking about it.  It might be relatively new language/knowledge to you, but jewelers know exactly what you’re talking about.  

 

5. Insist on a GIA Diamond Grading Report (seriously).  It provides an unbiased scientific evalution on a diamonds 4C’s.  Good jewelers rely on GIA grading reports when purchasing  diamonds.

 

6. Make a purchase!

 

7. Get an appraisal (for insurance, this is required)

 

8. Call your insurance company and get your ring immediately insured.

 

9. Pop the question