How do I know if my diamond is a conflict (or ‘blood’) diamond?
Only a very small percentage of diamonds are sourced from the conflict areas of Africa. Diamond Guild Australia retailers are careful about their sources and concerned about the issue of conflict diamonds. As such Diamond Guild Australia members all purchase diamonds from suppliers who adhere to the Kimberley Process System of Warranties (see Kimberley Process section on the DGA website). As a client of a DGA member, you should feel reassured about your diamond purchase
How should I clean my diamond?
Your Diamond Guild Australia jeweller would be delighted to clean your diamond ring whenever you wish. At home, commercially prepared jewellery cleaner is
suitable as is washing up liquid – in fact, anything that can cut grease. Ask your Diamond Guild Australia member the best way to clean your diamond.
There are many factors that determine the value of a diamond. Many purchasers judge a diamond’s price by its size, its colour grade and its clarity grade, but there are many other factors which can affect its price. The way a diamond is cut for example can represent up to 50% of the value of that diamond. Other factors such as fluorescence can make the diamond appear milky. It has been known for some merchants to drill out the natural inclusions in a diamond and to fill the holes with synthetic material. It is important, therefore, to have faith that your jeweller will know about and will disclose these details about your diamond, so you can make an informed choice.
If you have a quote for what appears to be the same item that seems well below all the others, beware! As with most things in life, if it seems too good to be true, it probably is.
Is a diamond a good investment?
Diamond Guild Australia members recommend you purchase a diamond because you love it. Given that diamond prices have been increasing for the last 15-20 years, it is unlikely that diamonds will ever lose their value. However, no – one can predict which way the market will swing. Therefore, unless you are an experienced diamond trader, we do not recommend buying up diamonds as your primary investment strategy! Just enjoy your diamonds as emblems of your commitment to another or as beautiful gifts for yourself.
My friend recently bought a diamond on the internet. Is that wise?
The true beauty of a diamond can only be realised in the eye of the beholder. Diamonds that may seem to have good credentials can still appear glassy and dull if their cut is not of the highest standard. The tiniest variation in dimensions can be very important to the way a diamond sparkles. As such, shopping on size, colour and clarity alone can be insufficient in ensuring you buy a diamond which has the best possible characteristics for your occasion and for your budget. All Diamond Guild members have the highest level of skill and expertise and hence can take into consideration all your criteria when helping you select the most beautiful diamond for you loved one or for yourself.
We anticipate that you will enjoy your diamond for years to come. Choosing a Diamond Guild member will ensure your jeweller is there to support you for years to come too.
What are the most popular shapes for diamond rings?
By far the most popular shape is the Round diamond. It is typically the most expensive too. Other popular shapes include Princess (square), Emerald (rectangle), Oval, Teardrop and Heart. Ask your Diamond Guild Australia jeweller to show you the options on shape to help you decide which is most appropriate for your purchase.
What is fluorescence and what difference does it make to a diamond?
Some diamonds emit a subtle blue (or yellow, or even white) glow when exposed to ultraviolet rays – including the sun and fluorescent office lights. Fluorescence in diamonds does not typically affect price nor appearance, although sometimes a very strongly fluorescent diamond may appear ‘milky’ in daylight. Fluorescence may also have a slightly positive influence on the appearance of certain off – coloured diamonds which may increase their beauty.
What’s the difference between a certified diamond and a non certified diamond?
Having a certified diamond typically gives you a respected, independent third party opinion to the quality of the diamond you are purchasing. Make sure the certificate provided with your diamond comes from an international, respected, independent diamond grading laboratory. It is also reassuring to seek the advice of a well informed, trained professional to ensure you are confident about the quality. All diamonds sold by Diamond Guild Australia members are certified and your member can give you any advice you require about certificates.
An uncertified diamond is not necessarily a bad diamond. However, its stated quality is based only on the word of the seller not on an independent grading process. Having a diamond certificate helps you verify details and information in the event of an insurance or replacement issue.