Wilson Diamonds Home American Gem Society
DIAMOND GRADING

Diamond grades are supposed to be standard. Unfortunately it is not uncommon to find vastly different interpretations of grades, usually inflated in the jewelers favor. To sort through these inconsistencies you must ask the jeweler to verify any verbal quotes by showing you the diamond in a properly equipped and accredited grading lab. This is the only way to know the actual grade and thus be able to accurately compare prices.

In this section are some great rules in order to avoid poor diamonds that initially appear better than they are. Follow these rules and you'll make a much better choice than when you copy down quoted grades and try to compare jewelers.

Also, never buy an already mounted diamond unless you don't care what you get.

If you still are confused after reading this section, then come to the store in Provo (near Zupas and the Olive Garden) and ask us your questions. We'll make it all very clear.

Diamond quality is defined by four grading criteria, called the Four C's: Cut, Color, Clarity, and Carat-Weight. A diamond is given a separate grade in each category. Some of these categories affect beauty a great deal, other very little, but all categories affect price. Even slight nuances can change price substantially, especially in bigger diamonds.

Rule: When comparing diamonds, never allow one of the four grading categories to go unmentioned, undefined, or casually glossed over. Especially pay attention that the cut grade is defined as a GIA grade.

The Four C's were invented by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), a non profit organization that does impartial grading of diamonds and offers education and diplomas in diamond grading.
The Four C's