Thinking about estimating diamond value? Based on the four C’s – carat weight, color, cut, and clarity – an appraiser determines a diamond’s value. From the value, the quality and reputation of the brand are established.
The weight of a diamond in carats is calculated by measuring its mass. 200mg is equal to one carat. Figuring out the carat weight is simple. In contrast, how the carat weight changes the diamond’s value is a little more difficult. Because a bigger diamond is more precious and uncommon, its worth goes up quickly by large amounts per carat as a general rule. A two-carat diamond is at least two times more valuable than a one-carat diamond that is the same clarity, cut, and color. As an exponential function, there is a direct, causal, and increasing relationship between the per carat value and the total carat weight.
Diamond Color, Cut, and Clarity
The other three of the four C’s are assessed by a grading system set up by the GIA. Diamonds with the least amount of color are considered to be the most valuable. They are classified as traditional diamonds, whereas diamonds with a yellowish hew are lower in value.
Fancy colored diamonds are assessed differently than traditional diamonds. Market demand, which can change over time according to fashion trends and popularity, affects their worth. A black diamond is a type of diamond that serves as a good example of this. Due to it becoming trendy in the fashion industry, its value has risen. Its value is also gauged on whether or not the diamond has been treated. This would reflect negatively on its value. The value of chocolate diamonds depends heavily on certain factors as well. The darker the color, the higher the value. Also, the rarer the secondary color, the higher the value.
A diamond cut is based on the dimensions of the diamond and its closeness to the benchmark – the cut which increases its iridescence to the highest possible level. It is important to remember that certain diamond shapes are higher in value, such as round cut diamonds.
The grade a diamond receives for clarity depends on whether natural imperfections are visible and their number appearing on the piece. The appraiser will view the diamond under a 10x magnifying glass and if he sees a number of imperfections, that will lower the diamond’s value.
Additional Value Identification Factors of Diamond Rings
The four C’s are the main factors that affect the diamond’s value, but other factors come into play, such as the value of the ring band itself. Because the value of a ring relates directly to the price of metals that the market dictates, a 14k gold ring with diamonds, for example, includes the value of the 14k gold band. An appraiser takes this into account and considers the type and purity of the metal.
The ring’s brand, setting, and design also affect its value. Diamond ring arrangements that are a more intricate and complex increase in value because it is harder to create them. Also, because they are in higher demand, a ring designed by a popular brand is worth more. What’s more, is that a ring will depreciate in value due to wear and tear. Which includes components that are bent or tarnished.
Market value dictates the worth an appraiser gives the piece while estimating diamond value. Thus, in order to determine how much you would spend on a ring of similar design and traits, you would use the appraiser’s estimate as a frame of reference. Certified by highly esteemed institutions, highly qualified, unbiased professional appraisers can help if you want to get insurance on your ring. If you want to sell it they will provide you proper certifiable paperwork, to assist in this process. By taking the time to do research on finding the best appraiser, you will avoid the headache of worrying about whether you received an appropriate estimate. Make sure they are certified!
Now you have all the information you need to find that special someone a very special ring that will meet your needs and exceed her expectations. Remember the 4 C’s – carat weight, color, cut, and clarity and use their characteristics that affect value to find everything you are looking for in a ring. Take into account other factors as well, like the ring band, setting and design, and the brand itself while estimating diamond value. Popularity is important to consider too. Is she a trendy person, or not so much? Specify what is important in this purchase to find the ring that fits your budget as well as the beauty of the union it signifies.