The 4C’s: How to Use the Traditional GIA Grading Scale to Buy Diamonds

Cover art for the article "The 4C's: How To Use the Traditional GIA Grading Scale to Buy Diamonds" which depicts several decorative borders centered around a silver ring with a round-shape diamond center-piece.

[sc_fs_multi_faq headline-0=”h2″ question-0=”1. What is the most important tool for a diamond shopper to have?” answer-0=”The GIA Grading Report is the number one tool for any shopper. For any major diamond purchase (specifically those over a few thousand dollars), a lab report is essential. If a stone does not have a reputable lab report, the … Read more

What is Worth?

Any statement of worth has to contain an element of what it’s worth, to whom, under what circumstances. Without that you got nothing.

What is Worth? Any statement of worth has to contain an element of what it’s worth, to whom, and under what circumstances. Without that you got nothing. Words on a page. Vapor. Cynics answer this with: “It’s Worth Whatever Someone Will Give You For it.”  While true in a certain dystopian sense, that’s not a … Read more

Why Do I Need an Appraiser: Quality Control

Cover art for the article "quality control" depicting a necklace with an ornate victorian style border.

One of the key reasons to get an independent appraisal on a new item is quality control.  Sure, you’ve got a GIA report with a bunch of the relevant data, and you’ve got a good idea of the price since you’ve been shopping for months to find exactly the right item, and the seller will … Read more

Consumer Tips for Selling Diamonds

Cover Art for the article "Consumer Tips for Selling Diamonds" which depicts the picture of a diamond ring and the title designed in the Victorian Style

“A diamond is forever.” Everyone has heard this slogan to advertise DeBeers’ diamonds, and it’s basically true. Al though you can break or lose them, diamonds are not particularly perishable. This has created a whole segment of customers who find that they have diamonds that they no longer need or want and who would just … Read more

What is Fair Market Value?

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Any statement of value must contain the elements of what something is worth, to whom, when and under what circumstances. An unexplained number is at best useless, and quite possibly misleading. That’s just fundamental to the concept of value and nearly every discussion of value ends up with someone talking about ‘fair market value’ as … Read more

What Does Appraised Value Mean for Jewelry Appraisals?

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[sc_fs_multi_faq headline-0=”h2″ question-0=”1. Why isn’t an “appraised value” just the amount of money I can get if I sell my jewelry today?” answer-0=”An appraisal for insurance is not the same as a “bid” to buy. When you sell jewelry, the price depends on who is buying, their current inventory, and even their local popularity. An … Read more