Newbie Q......Diamond Identification (ie. Serial Number)

Detox · May 19, 2005

Yes yes, more questions.

As I continue to serch for a nice loose diamond for an engagement ring I have notived that some diamonds have what appears to be a serial number laser''s into the stone for ID pruposes.

1. Do all diamonds have this?
2. Do you pay a premium for this?
3. Should I only buy a stone that has this?

Sorry if this questions seems trivial.

niceice · May 19, 2005

Date: 5/19/2005 9:24:11 AM
Author:Detox

I have notived that some diamonds have what appears to be a serial number laser''s into the stone for ID pruposes.

1. Do all diamonds have this?
2. Do you pay a premium for this?
3. Should I only buy a stone that has this?

Some diamonds are laser inscribed on the girdle edge with an identification number or the number from the corresponding lab report and some are not. The reason why some are and some are not is simple enough, some people like it and some do not... The inscription is about 0.03 microns deep and does not effect the beauty of the diamond in any way. The cost of inscription is minimal and can be added to a diamond if it is not present at the time you are considering it and thus there is no need to pay a premium for a diamond simply because it has been inscribed... Guess this answers the last question as well.

denverappraiser · May 19, 2005

Laser inscriptions are a handy and relatively easy way to recognize a particular stone. It''s not a 100% positive ID but it''s a pretty good basis for a guess. Premium price isn''t really the right word. Inscription services are included as part of the package with several labs services and anyone who wants can get it done for about $50 although there may be some shipping involved if no one in your neighborhood has the required equipment. I suppose that could be called a premium but it''s pretty darn small unless the stone is question is very inexpensive.

Neil Beaty
GG(GIA) ISA NAJA
Independent Appraisals in Denver