Diamond buying advice

[mike c]

How can you tell if a diamond certificate is reliable and not just another advertising tool?

Consumers are generally not experts in diamond grading and therefore need to rely on certificates or grading reports in their purchasing decision.

That’s why more and more retailers offer certificates as proof of what they are selling. In addition, with synthetic diamonds and treated diamonds on the market it has become a vital part of the industry to maintain consumer confidence.

However, not all diamond certificates are reliable. Some laboratories are owned or run by the same individuals selling the diamonds and some do not have the equipment, master sets, processes or expertise to grade and detect and disclose treatments, synthetics etc… Some retailers sell with valuations, some with certificates from questionable Laboratories. This has only one intention, to convince the consumer to purchase.

A reliable diamond certificate is a detailed description of the stone prepared by a respected independent laboratory. Its purpose is to verify the authenticity and quality of the diamond. The certificate is as good as the laboratory that produces it, so check the credentials. Reputable laboratories make use of advanced equipment such as the DiamondSure and DiamondView to screen diamonds and detect synthetics and treatments. These laboratories are the watchdogs of the industry and protect consumers.

So whether you are buying from a physical jeweller or an online retailer, be wary of those offering bogus certificates alongside international recognised certificates.

This tactic is used to lend credibility from reliable certs to “in house” certs.

Bottom line: Make sure your diamond comes with a reliable cert!