How to Understand Certificates 

There are many important factors to consider when examining different diamonds even if they have similar certificates: 

• Two diamonds (certified by the same gemological laboratory) with identical carat weight, color and clarity are invariably not equal in value. 
• Gemological laboratories certify any diamond submitted for grading whether the stone is beautiful or not. The function of a laboratory is simply to record weight, measurements and provide an opinion on color and clarity.  
• Color and clarity grades are not an exact science and grades can often change if the same stone is submitted to the same laboratory more than once.
• Inclusion location, size and type can dramatically influence value.  Stones with black or centrally located inclusions are less valuable than diamonds with delicate white inclusions towards the edges of the stone.
• For the same amount of money, it is usually valid for a buyer to select a larger, more modest quality diamond rather than a higher quality smaller stone.
• Diamonds that are cut properly have the same brilliance (refractive index) irrespective of color and clarity grades unless the stone is very heavily included (I1 to I3 clarity).
• Fluorescence decreases the value of a diamond in proportion to its effect on overall brilliance (if any).  Strong to Very Strong fluorescence tend to make a diamond appear oily or milky and should be avoided. Faint to medium fluorescence has little impact on value and actually enhances color and value in diamonds graded color I and lower.
• Carat weight is the first priority for most buyers and cutters too often leave weight on diamonds in undesirable places to increase the weight. This practice makes diamonds heavier but not larger where it really matters... face size. Diamonds cut for weight are less valuable and typically less brilliant.     

There is a great deal to know and share about the most intriguing and brilliant of all gemstones, the diamond.  We invite you to elevate your buying experience and work with true diamond professionals at Ascot Diamonds.