Key Concepts

  • Diamond grades provide a consistent, standardized way of communicating and comparing diamond quality.
  • Diamond grades are only part of the determination of diamond market value.
  • The listed wholesale prices of diamonds depend on the market conditions that exist when the lists are published.
  • Large, high-quality diamonds are graded much more thoroughly than small, low-quality ones.
  • Diamond’s specific formation conditions are directly responsible for its hardness and durability as a gem.
  • The unique physical properties of gem-quality diamonds allow them to survive environmental forces better than any other gemstone.
  • The huge financial costs involved in locating, developing, and operating diamond mines are factors affecting diamond value.