Diamond Appraisal Estimator
D (Colorless)
E (Colorless)
F (Colorless)
G (Near Colorless)
H (Near Colorless)
I (Near Colorless)
J (Near Colorless)
K (Faint Yellow)
L (Faint Yellow)
M (Faint Yellow)
N (Very Light Yellow)
O (Very Light Yellow)
P (Very Light Yellow)
Q (Very Light Yellow)
R (Very Light Yellow)
S (Light Yellow)
T (Light Yellow)
U (Light Yellow)
V (Light Yellow)
W (Light Yellow)
X (Light Yellow)
Y (Light Yellow)
Z (Light Yellow)
FL (Flawless)
IF (Internally Flawless)
VVS1 (Very Very Slightly Included 1)
VVS2 (Very Very Slightly Included 2)
VS1 (Very Slightly Included 1)
VS2 (Very Slightly Included 2)
SI1 (Slightly Included 1)
SI2 (Slightly Included 2)
I1 (Included 1)
I2 (Included 2)
I3 (Included 3)
Excellent
Very Good
Good
Fair
Poor
None
Faint
Medium
Strong
Very Strong
GIA (Gemological Institute of America)
AGS (American Gem Society)
IGI (International Gemological Institute)
EGL (European Gemological Laboratory)
None
Understanding Your Diamond's Value: The 4 Cs and Beyond
A diamond appraisal is an expert assessment of a diamond's quality and value. While a professional appraisal requires a certified gemologist, this calculator provides an estimation based on the key factors that influence a diamond's worth. Understanding these factors is crucial whether you're buying, selling, or insuring a diamond.
The Four Cs: The Foundation of Diamond Value
The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) established the "4 Cs" as the universal standard for evaluating diamond quality:
- Carat Weight: This refers to the diamond's weight, not its size. One carat equals 200 milligrams. Larger diamonds are rarer and generally command a higher price per carat, not just a higher total price. For example, a 2-carat diamond is typically worth significantly more than two 1-carat diamonds of similar quality.
- Cut Grade: Often considered the most important C, cut refers to how well a diamond's facets interact with light. An excellent cut maximizes a diamond's brilliance (white light reflection), fire (dispersion of light into colors), and scintillation (sparkle). Poorly cut diamonds can appear dull even with high color and clarity grades. Cut grades range from Excellent to Poor.
- Color Grade: Diamond color is graded on a scale from D (colorless) to Z (light yellow or brown). Colorless diamonds (D-F) are the rarest and most valuable. As you move down the scale, the diamond exhibits more noticeable yellow or brown tints, which generally decrease its value.
- Clarity Grade: Clarity measures the absence of inclusions (internal flaws) and blemishes (external flaws). The GIA clarity scale ranges from Flawless (FL) to Included (I3). Flawless diamonds are extremely rare. Most diamonds have some inclusions, but many are not visible to the naked eye (e.g., VS1, VS2).
Beyond the 4 Cs: Other Influencing Factors
- Fluorescence: Some diamonds emit a soft glow when exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light. While often undetectable in normal lighting, strong fluorescence can sometimes make a diamond appear milky or oily, potentially reducing its value. However, faint or medium fluorescence usually has no impact, and in some cases, can even make a yellowish diamond appear whiter.
- Certification: A diamond's grading report from a reputable laboratory like GIA or AGS adds significant value and credibility. These reports provide an unbiased assessment of the diamond's 4 Cs and other characteristics. Uncertified diamonds or those certified by less stringent labs (like some EGL branches) may be valued lower due to uncertainty about their actual quality.
- Market Conditions: Like any commodity, diamond prices are subject to supply and demand, economic trends, and consumer preferences. The "Market Condition Factor" in this calculator allows you to account for general market fluctuations.
- Shape: While not a "C," the diamond's shape (e.g., round, princess, oval, emerald) can influence its price. Round brilliant diamonds are the most popular and often command a premium due to their superior brilliance and higher demand.
How This Calculator Works (Simplified)
This calculator uses a simplified model to estimate a diamond's appraisal value. It starts with a hypothetical base price per carat for a standard diamond and then applies multipliers based on your selected Carat Weight, Color, Clarity, Cut, Fluorescence, and Certification. A final "Market Condition Factor" allows for adjustment based on current market trends.
Important Disclaimer
This Diamond Appraisal Estimator is for informational purposes only and provides a simplified approximation of a diamond's potential value. Diamond pricing is highly complex and involves many nuanced factors that cannot be fully captured by a simple online tool. For an accurate and legally recognized valuation, always consult with a certified gemologist or a professional appraiser.