If you’re thinking about selling your diamond jewelry, there’s one thing you should know: understanding how your diamond is graded can make a big difference in how much you get for it. Diamond grading gives you a clear picture of your diamond’s quality and value, so you’re not left guessing or taking lowball offers. Let’s break down what you need to know before selling your diamonds.
The Four Cs of Diamond Grading
Diamond grading is based on four key factors, known as the Four Cs: Cut, Clarity, Color, and Carat Weight. These will help you better understand what your diamond is worth.
Cut
The cut of a diamond is all about how well it reflects light, making it sparkle. A well-cut diamond can look stunning, while a poorly cut one can look dull, even if it’s big. This factor is more about the quality of the craftsmanship than just the shape (like round or oval), and it’s a major part of what makes a diamond valuable.
Clarity
Clarity refers to how flawless your diamond is. The fewer internal flaws (inclusions) and external blemishes, the higher its clarity grade. While some imperfections are so tiny you can’t see them without a microscope, they still impact the diamond’s value. The fewer the flaws, the rarer—and pricier—the diamond.
Color
When it comes to diamonds, less color is better. Diamonds are graded from D (colorless) to Z (light yellow or brown). Colorless diamonds are rare and highly desirable, which makes them more valuable. Even a slight tint can lower the value, though some people prefer the charm of diamonds with faint color.
Carat Weight
This one’s straightforward—carat weight refers to how big the diamond is. Naturally, bigger diamonds are rarer and tend to fetch higher prices. But keep in mind that size isn’t everything. A smaller diamond with a high grade in the other categories can be worth more than a larger one with poor grades.
Why Certification Matters
Before you sell your diamond, having it certified by a reputable gemological institute, like the GIA (Gemological Institute of America), is a good idea. Certification gives you—and potential buyers—confidence in the quality and authenticity of the diamond. It’s like having a trusted expert vouch for your diamond, which makes it easier to set a fair price and sell it confidently.
Why You Should Know Your Diamond’s Grade
Knowing your diamond’s grade gives you power in the selling process. It sets realistic expectations for what you can get and helps you avoid accepting a lower offer than what your diamond is worth. Buyers are more likely to give you a serious offer when they know the exact quality of your stone, so having it graded and certified is a smart move.
At Frank Pollak & Sons, we have over a century of expertise in assessing and buying diamond jewelry in New York City. Whether you’re selling an heirloom piece or a personal treasure, we’ll ensure your diamonds are evaluated with care and precision, giving you a fair and competitive offer that reflects their true worth.
Visit us at our Fifth Avenue location or contact at 1(800)-342-3878 today to discover the value of your diamonds and experience a transparent, hassle-free selling process.