Learning about the 4 C’s of diamonds is important. A quick hands-on presentation after reading or watching the GIA video tutorials will facilitate questions and help you become an informed decision maker. GIA, the creator of the diamond grading system, is the accepted worldwide authority on diamonds.

The diamond search on our site, “Find Your Diamond”, contains only diamonds graded by 2 laboratories, the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), and the American Gem Society (AGS). There are several other laboratories who provide certificates that look similar to GIA and AGS, however, their results lack the accuracy in grading we insist upon. Consequently, any price comparison using a GIA or AGS stringently graded diamond and those more loosely graded by other facilities will create confusion. In short, make sure to compare apples with apples.

Is the shape of a diamond a value factor? Yes, put simply, if all grading factors are equal, round diamonds cost about 15% to 30% more than other shapes.