How to Get a Diamond Appraisal?

Whether you are looking to sell your jewelry or just want to understand its worth, understanding its value is the first step in making informed decisions. A diamond appraisal will provide you with important and fascinating information about its value, quality, and craftsmanship.

What is diamond appraisal and why is it crucial?

A diamond appraisal allows you to find out the current market value of your diamond. The evaluation process involves looking closely at its qualities, including the four Cs: cut, color, clarity, and carat weight. Alongside this, a diamond valuation also examines the general condition of your precious stone, and whether it has any unique or rare characteristics. As an owner, a diamond appraisal will give you the confidence and credibility when it comes to selling your diamond, as well as the information you need should you wish to insure it for theft, damage, or loss.

What are the different types of diamond appraisals?

here are various types of diamond assessments. We have highlighted the most common below to help you decide which might be the best for your needs.

Replacement Value Appraisal

• This type of diamond appraisal lets you know how much it would cost to replace your diamond with one that's similar in quality and characteristics.
• It is often used to give to insurance companies so you can make sure you have sufficient coverage in case you lose, damage, or have your diamond stolen.

Fair Market Value Appraisal

• A fair market value appraisal involves estimating how much a buyer might be willing to pay in average market conditions.
• It is typically used in estate settlements and divorces, or if you are looking to sell your diamond and want to know how much it might sell for in a normal market.

Comparable Replacement Value Appraisal

• This type of diamond valuation is usually carried out on diamonds with historical value or unique features. This is because they typically cannot be replaced by analog diamonds, even of the same cut, clarity, color and carat weight.
• This mix of the two valuation types above looks across multiple markets and is most useful when you need to replace or sell your diamond under specific market conditions.

How does jewelry appraisal compare with its selling price?

Your jewelry appraisal and selling price are related but distinct. They can both be influenced by a number of factors. For example, when you have a diamond jewelry valuation, it will give you an estimation based on its characteristics and condition. It will also confirm whether it is a designer piece and any unique details or signals of superior craftsmanship. 

This number will often be higher than the selling price. This is because it will typically reflect its insurance value or how much it would cost to replace. A diamond appraiser will sometimes take into account retail markups and the venue of the sale – but not always. For example, a well-established consignment store might give you a higher diamond valuation, based on their confidence that they can fetch that price.

On the other hand, the selling price reflects what a buyer is willing to pay for a jewel. This is based on current market and economic conditions and may be lower than your valuation. Therefore, while a jewelry appraisal will give you a formal assessment of your stone's value, what you will be able to sell it for ultimately depends on buyer interest at the time of sale.

How much does a diamond appraisal cost and where can I get it?

Diamond appraisals can generally be conducted by local jewelers or online appraisal services, and usually cost around $100 - $200. Local jewelers can provide a quick, personal service, but their expertise may vary. Similarly, while online services offer convenience and competitive pricing, they require careful selection to avoid the risk of fraud.

How Do Gemological Institutes Ensure Accurate Valuations?

Gemological institutes like GIA (Gemological Institute of America), IGI (International Gemological Institute), EGL (European Gemological Laboratory), and AGS (American Gem Society) play a crucial role in ensuring accurate diamond valuations. Their certificates meticulously detail the characteristics of the diamond, including its cut, clarity, color, and carat weight. These standardized assessments provide essential information that helps appraisers and buyers alike evaluate the quality and value of the diamond with confidence.

Looking for a Free, Reliable Diamond Valuation?

At Auctentic, our diamond valuations are carried out by certified GIA and IGI gemologists. With decades of experience in the industry, we are trusted for our accuracy, reliability, and professional integrity. You can also receive an initial estimate of your diamond's worth through our preliminary value calculator on our website. Our valuation service is completely free of charge, and you are not obligated to sell your item once you have your valuation. This means you are free to opt out at any stage of the process. 

The diamond valuation process at Auctentic

Our team at Auctentic makes the diamond valuation process as simple, straightforward, and stress-free as possible. To receive a diamond appraisal, you will need to fill out a simple online form on our website, providing a photo of your diamond or diamond jewelry and an electronic copy or legible photo of your certificate, if available. Our certified gemologists will offer a preliminary valuation based on the 4Cs (Carat, Cut, Clarity, and Color). Other aspects, such as fluorescence, internal and external inclusions, certificates, and production marks in the case of rings and other diamond jewelry, will also be considered during a personal examination using the appropriate precision instruments.

Once you send your diamond to us free of charge, we will insure it and conduct a detailed assessment of its condition.

Our appraisal process includes: 

• Cleaning
• General Condition Overview
• Measurement and Evaluation of the 4Cs
• Assessment of Fluorescence and Inclusions
• Creating Professional Photos for Potential Buyers (if you decide to sell your jewelry)

Additionally, should you choose to sell your diamonds or jewelry with us, we'll craft compelling descriptions and cover all the costs associated with selling, such as shipping and insurance. You can send your diamond to us without leaving your home, visit one of our offices in Italy, Spain, or France, or use our home appraisal service.

To learn more about Auctentic or request your free diamond appraisal, get in touch with our expert team today.