When it comes to valuing a loose diamond or diamond jewellery, you may have heard someone refer to the Four Cs. The Four Cs stand for carat, cut, colour clarity. These four factors along with the maker, brand certificate determine a diamond’s value. Our highly trained specialists can provide you with an accurate up to date valuation.
Carat Diamond
Diamonds are valuable gemstones have their own weight system. Carat is the measure used for diamond weight can vary from 0.1ct to 4ct for engagement rings. However, world famous diamond like the Hope Diamond was 45.52ct.
The word “Carat” comes from “Carob seeds” which ancient diamond traders used to measure diamond weight now a carat is classed as 0.2 grams. It is important to remember not to confuse “Carat” with “Karat” which is the measurement used for gold purity.
Diamond Cut
Many people assume cut refers to the diamond shape (round, oval etc.) but it also refers to the proportions of the diamond. When the diamond is cut from the rough stone, the cutter must aim to balance his/her cut against the maximum yield. Diamond cutting technology has also advanced in recent years some diamonds cut with less precious have a larger top (old cut), showing they from the Victorian era. The cut of your diamond the size will reveal the carat.
Diamond Colours
When it comes to colourless or white diamonds, they are graded from D to Z. This is from almost clear to coloured with a yellow tint. The best diamonds sparkle, shine reflect the light this happens most when the diamond is clear. Colour is separate from clarity which can also impact the value. Most jewellers can assess a diamond colour by looking at it. E F colours are quite common still look fantastic.
Diamond Clarity
The final C which determines a diamond value is clarity. Clarity refers to inclusions (or a lack of them). Flaws in gemstones can be seen with the naked eye or only with a jeweller’s magnifier. Clarity ranges from the exceedingly rare FL (Flawless) to I3 (heavily included).
The internet can be a good tool for diamond value research however, a 2.0 carat round, brilliant diamond can be worth £40,860 if it is E Flawless but it could only be worth £10,360 if it is a K VS2. This emphasises the importance of getting a specialist appraisal.
There are many reasons why someone might want to pawn their diamonds. They may want to fund a property transaction, purchase something today or buy shares in Tesla. Whatever the reason, Suttons Robertson’s specialists can provide you with a free, accurate up to date diamond valuation.
Read our sell engagement ring guide to learn more.
