WHY IS IT SO IMPORTANT TO BUY A CERTIFIED DIAMOND?

Does certification matter?

Think about it… You go in to a store to buy an engagement ring. You fall in love with one. It’s gorgeous. It has a one carat diamond in the center, with another half carat of diamonds pave set down the side of a glistening 14k white gold ring.

But it doesn’t come with a certificate, nor is one even mentioned. So I ask you again…

Is certification really that important?

Yes. This is not how I would shop for diamonds, and not what I would advise.

I would always recommend shopping for loose certified diamonds FIRST… And then, and only then, once you find the perfect stone, pick a mounting of your choice and have it set just for you (a mounting sold without a center stone is called a semi-mount).

But why is it so important to buy this way?

There are many, many reasons why certification is so important.

Let’s look at them…

1. Quality Assurance:

A certified diamond provides assurance of its quality, authenticity, and value. A reputable diamond grading laboratory or certification body thoroughly evaluates the diamond’s characteristics, including its cut, color, clarity, and carat weight. This evaluation is conducted by expert gemologists using precise grading standards. By purchasing a certified diamond, you can have confidence in the quality and attributes of the stone.

2. Transparency and Trust:

Certification adds transparency to the diamond buying process (meaning, you’re not just taking the jeweler’s opinion). It ensures that the diamond’s specifications are accurately disclosed, allowing you to make an informed decision. A certified diamond comes with a detailed grading report that serves as an independent verification of the diamond’s characteristics. This report includes essential information about the diamond’s 4Cs (cut, color, clarity, and carat weight), as well as any additional features like fluorescence or treatments. This transparency builds trust between the buyer and the seller.

3. Comparability:

A certified diamond allows for easy comparison with other diamonds in terms of quality and value. With a grading report, you can objectively evaluate different diamonds and understand their unique features. This knowledge empowers you to make suitable comparisons and choose the diamond that best fits your preferences and budget.

4. Resale Value and Insurance:

Certified diamonds tend to have better resale value (especially if you purchase GIA). The detailed grading report provides credible documentation of the diamond’s attributes, which is valuable when selling or insuring the diamond. Potential buyers or insurance companies can trust the information provided in the certification, enhancing the diamond’s marketability and ensuring accurate valuation.

5. Avoiding Conflict Diamonds:

Certification helps to prevent the purchase of conflict diamonds, which are sourced from war zones and sold to finance armed conflicts against governments. The Kimberley Process Certification Scheme, an international initiative, ensures that rough diamonds are obtained from legitimate sources and are not associated with human rights abuses or unethical practices. By purchasing certified diamonds from reputable sources, you contribute to ethical and responsible sourcing practices.

So you see, buying a certified diamond provides quality assurance, transparency, comparability, and peace of mind. It ensures that you are making an informed purchase, protecting your investment, and supporting ethical practices in the diamond industry.

See some of the BEST certified diamonds here at James Allen.

Cheers! :)