Guide • Diamonds

Diamond Pricing (Without the Jargon)

Two diamonds can look similar on paper and still price very differently. Here’s what actually moves value — and what matters most to buyers.

Cut is king

Cut and proportions drive sparkle. A well-cut diamond can outshine a higher color/clarity stone with weak proportions. Buyers pay for beauty — and cut is the easiest way to see it.

• Round brilliant tends to command the strongest pricing when it’s well cut.
• Fancy shapes (oval, cushion, emerald, etc.) can be gorgeous, but pricing is more variable because proportion targets differ.
• Light performance matters. If a stone “goes dark” in the center, it usually trades at a discount.

The 4Cs in plain language

Reports & labs

A lab report helps verify what you’re buying and selling. For many buyers, the issuing lab can affect confidence and therefore pricing.

• GIA is widely considered the strictest/most consistent for natural diamonds.
• IGI is common and can be strong, especially for certain categories, but pricing can vary by buyer preference.
• No report? That’s okay — we can still evaluate. The market simply prices in more uncertainty.

Shape, size, and demand

Market demand changes. Round brilliants are usually most liquid. Fancy shapes can be highly desirable, but pricing depends on measurements, proportions, and how the stone “faces up.”

Tip: bring the ring/setting too — it helps verify measurements and condition.

What affects resale value

• Condition (chips, abrasions, worn prongs)
• Fluorescence (can help or hurt depending on strength and appearance)
• Make (how the diamond is cut and how it performs in real light)
• Paper & provenance (matching report number, original paperwork)

What to bring to an evaluation

• Any lab reports (GIA/IGI) and receipts if available
• The original box/papers if you have them
• All items you’re considering selling (so we can compare options)