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A good reputable jeweller is the first step to an intelligent diamond
purchase. Your jeweller should be knowledgeable about diamonds and help
you feel comfortable making this important purchase. If you are unaware
of a jeweller in your area, it may be helpful to contact the Jewellers
Association of Australia for a recommendation.
Next, always insist on a diamond grading certificate from an independent
and recognized grading laboratory. A reputable jeweller will gladly supply
an independent grading report on the diamond. Why independent? This assures
an unbiased and objective evaluation of the diamond. Often a conflict
of interest may exist if the same person selling the diamond determines
the grade. Why a laboratory? A good lab will have advanced equipment providing
for a more accurate assessment. Certain characteristics, such as treatments
and enhancements, will only be detected and disclosed by a specialist
laboratory.
Without a diamond grading report, unscrupulous dealers are able to sell
treated, poorly made and incorrectly graded diamonds to unsuspecting customers.
Be aware a valuation is not a diamond grading report. The quality of
any diamond assessed after having been set can only be estimated. Colour,
clarity and even weight cannot be determined accurately. Small differences
in any of these factors can significantly affect value. Valuations alone
do not accurately determine the quality of the diamond. Valuations subsequent
to certification are far more accurate.
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