eClarity Debunking the Myth: Natural Diamonds and What are the Commonly Asked Questions

Can you tell difference between labgrown and natural diamond?

Natural diamonds are grown 90-120km beneath the earth, with high pressure and high temperature, presence of carbon, diamonds are formed. Whereas on the other hand, labgrown diamonds are formed in a lab with a very similar environment with high temperature and high pressure.

They have the same physical and chemical properties, same scale in Mohs Scale of Hardness, same visual properties. It is almost impossible for a layman without any gemological knowledge to look at the two and be able to tell the difference.

For someone who has advanced gemological knowledge to tell the difference, is to look through the microscope and understand the visual difference between an earthy mineral, and a below the earth minerals, the microscopic inclusions. The specific knowledge is even beyond a normal gemologist, this goes to show how difficult it is to differentiate natural and labgrown diamond. Having said that, it is written clearly on the diamond reports by GIA and IGI the two most reputable laboratory that issues report for natural diamond and labgrown diamonds, whether it is natural, or labgrown.

eClarity would like to present an analogy, let’s say if natural diamonds are a baby, then labgrown diamonds are an IVF Baby.

 

Are natural diamonds more expensive than labgrown diamonds?

Naturally, natural diamonds are more expensive than labgrown diamonds.

For example, a natural 1-carat G colour, VS2, 3EX diamonds with certification by GIA or IGI, will be $10,000. For labgrown diamonds, with the same specifications will be sold around $3,000- $5,000. The reason for the range for the labgrown diamonds’ price is because it is also changing, it is stabilising between $3,000 to $5,000 depending on the demand, and the supply.

 

Can diamond be resold?

Previously, the only way to resell a diamond is through a pawnshop, or you sell it to someone you know.

Times has changed, now people can resell their diamonds on second-hand selling platforms. platforms, like Carousell to sell it.

eClarity provides for customers, who like to sell their diamonds to upgrade for another one a trade up at eClarity and BA.sg.

For diamonds that is bought with no trade up policy, you could try and go to the second-hand selling platforms. Pricing wise, you will be surprised as you could fetch quite close to your buying price sometimes.

 

What is the resale value of natural diamonds?

At eClarity, if you have bought a natural diamond that is triple excellent, within 3 years, you could come back to eClarity for a trade up. The value that you get from the diamond you bought is almost 100%.

 

Do natural diamonds increase in value?

As a gemologist of 17 years, Amanda at eClarity has observed that the April’s birthstone prices were rather consistent. While sometimes you see a little up trend, but at the same time it could be affected by other factor, for example like your currency exchange, versus your country’s currency.

For certain diamonds, very special unique features diamonds, it has seen increased multiple times, example, black diamond, it was $200 from 17 years ago, but today if you want to buy a black diamond in the excellent range, you will have to spend thousands. The key thing is to know what are the diamonds that are potentially rare and getting its popularity.

In today’s situation, for labgrown diamonds, like pink diamonds, it could have some potential, we are just seeing an uptrend in terms of interest, also, there is a challenge growing pink diamond to a desirable colour, so this is something you would prefer to enquire and observe.

 

Do natural diamonds lose value?

On the other hand, eClarity gemologist Amanda has never really seen diamonds that lose its value, for example, a customer had brought in his grandmother’s diamond, with the receipt, say this is a diamond that is bought from a shop, that was 2 carats, and it was for $9000, and now 2 carats today are for $30,000-50,000.

 

Why is diamond resale value so low?

The resell value sometimes depends on where are you selling it. Usually when you sell it at pawn shop, that’s probably not the right place to sell your diamonds.

There are better platforms these days, you could try to sell it on Carousell, or you can bring it back to where you bought your diamonds for trade up, some you can get up to 70-80%

 

Is it better to buy gold or diamonds?

When you’re buying flowers, you don’t think about whether the price of the flowers will increase in value. You buy flowers because you want to look at the person smile. Diamonds are the same, you buy it to make someone happy, the good thing is that diamond is forever, as compared to flowers. So, you can continue to accessorise yourself, and you continue to express your love.

When you buy gold, the main concern is about the value, say you buy 10 grams of golf, and you will sell when the prices are high.

So, one is for pure investment purpose, and the other expression of love.

 

How diamonds look when they are found?

Diamond in the rough look like a piece of frosted rock or glass! Diamonds originally are of this pointy shape (diamond shape), and they don’t look like diamond at all!

 

How much is a 1 carat uncut diamond?

If an uncut diamond is 1 carat, depending on the yield, it may be a 0.3 carat or a 0.1 carat after cutting. It depends on the position and colour of the inclusion.

 

Do uncut diamonds have resale value?

Uncut diamonds are not something that a layman could purchase easily on the market. It is rather tricky as the diamond trader would prefer to keep it conflict free. It is almost impossible for a jewellery store to treat uncut diamonds. When treating uncut diamonds, the owner has to have to proof that it is a conflict free diamond that is sourced within the Kimberley Process.

 

Is it worth getting a GIA diamond certified?

Now most of the time, eClarity suggest it’s always worth it to get a diamond GIA certified unless the diamond is very small or of bad quality. The price to get it certified range from a few hundred from slightly below a hundred to hundred plus USD.

Also, we need to remember that we need to have the insurance and shipment to send to GIA and sending it back. But only with GIA certification, you can then emotionally be assured that you know the grading or the quality of your diamond.

If you are thinking about selling and reselling it, it also gives you the assurance of prices, the confidence to fetch a certain price.

Let’s say if you want to do some setting or resetting, GIA also laser inscribe on the diamonds.

 

Which certification is best for diamond?

eClarity and BA.sg we use GIA and IGI more, so you may want to consider the labs that we have mentioned.

 

Which is better? GIA or AGS?

GIA is known to be more academic than AGS, while AGS is more focus on to the cut analysis, and commercially well received.

They are closely related to each other in terms of the founders.

 

Is there fake GIA certificate?

We haven’t seen it for ourselves for a fake GIA. But we have seen fake certification.

There are a few tell-tale signs like wrong spelling, wrong alignments. It is recommended that the certification is from renown labs like what we mentioned above. If you’re getting a GIA certification, there’s always a bar for you to scan and double verify.

Be very cautious if you are getting anything else.

 

 

 

eClarity X MoneyFM 89.30 – A conversation on eClarity’s real time online diamond database

Join us as the Founder and Director of eClarity, Amanda Koo discuss about the real time online diamond database, Amanda’s educational journey before becoming a renowned jeweller and gemologist.

Special thanks to #MoneyFM 89.30, for inviting Amanda for the interview and airing it on 8am on The Breakfast Hurdle programme.

To catch the full session, head over to our Youtube Channel (eClarity Singapore)
To read the interview, go to https://eclarity.com.sg/moneyfm-89-3-the-breakfast-hurdle-live-interview-an-interview-with-eclarity-director-amanda-koo/

#eclarity #eclaritysg #MoneyFM89.3 #interview #thebreakfasthuddle #elliotdanker #radiointerview #realtimeonlinedatabase #allaboutdiamonds #diamonds #jewellery
#gemologist

eClarity Black Diamond Engagement Ring Collection

eClarity Black Diamond Engagement Ring Collection

Black diamonds are a stunning and unique choice for engagement rings. Unlike traditional colourless diamonds, black diamonds have a dark and mysterious beauty that sets them apart from other gemstones.

Black diamonds are formed from carbon atoms, just like colourless diamonds, but they contain small inclusions that give them their unique colour. These inclusions can range from graphite to small mineral deposits, which absorb light and give the diamond its deep black colour.

Black diamonds have become increasingly popular in recent years, as more couples look for alternative and unconventional engagement ring options. Black diamonds offer a bold and striking contrast to traditional white gold or platinum settings, making them a popular choice for those who want to make a statement with their ring.

Black Diamond Engagement Ring in 18k Rose Gold

 

Black Diamond Engagement Ring in 18k White Gold Tango Design

 

Black Diamond Engagement Ring in 18k White Gold Pave Diamond Design

 

Black Diamond Swirl Engagement Ring in 18k Rose, White Gold

 

Black Diamond Engagement Ring in 18k White Gold Customized Design

One of the benefits of black diamonds is their versatility. They can be paired with a variety of metals and other gemstones to create a wide range of styles, from vintage to modern. They also come in a variety of shapes and sizes, so couples can find the perfect black diamond to fit their individual tastes and preferences.

Another advantage of black diamonds is their affordability. Compared to traditional colourless diamonds, black diamonds can be a more budget-friendly option without sacrificing on style or quality.

When choosing a black diamond engagement ring, it is important to consider the quality and clarity of the diamond. Look for diamonds with a high quality of cut and clarity, as these factors can greatly affect the overall appearance of the stone.

Overall, black diamond engagement rings are a bold and striking choice that can make a statement and express individuality. With their unique beauty and versatility, black diamond engagement rings are sure to be a treasured and timeless piece of jewellery for years to come.

eClarity Yellow Diamond Ring Collection

eClarity Yellow Diamond Ring Collection

Yellow coloured diamonds are a beautiful and unique option for engagement rings. They are rarer than traditional colourless diamonds, which makes them a coveted choice for those who want something more unique and special.

Yellow diamonds get their colour from nitrogen atoms that are trapped in the crystal structure of the diamond during its formation. The intensity of the yellow colour can range from a pale yellow to a deep canary yellow, with more intense colours being rarer and more valuable.

Yellow Diamond in 18k White Gold Double Halo Pave Setting

 

Princess Cut in 18k Rose Gold Trilogy Setting

 

Customized Design in 18k White Gold

 

Cushion Cut in 18k Yellow Gold Trilogy Setting

One of the benefits of yellow diamonds is their versatility. They can be paired with a variety of metals, such as white gold or platinum, to create different styles and looks. They also come in a range of shapes and sizes, so couples can find the perfect yellow diamond to fit their individual tastes and preferences.

Yellow diamonds are also a symbol of happiness and positivity, making them a fitting choice for an engagement ring. The warm and vibrant colour of a yellow diamond can bring joy and light to the wearer, reminding them of the love and commitment shared between partners.

When choosing a yellow diamond engagement ring, it is important to consider the quality and clarity of the diamond. Look for diamonds with a high quality of cut and clarity, as these factors can greatly affect the overall appearance of the stone.

Overall, yellow diamond engagement rings are a unique and beautiful choice that can bring joy and happiness to the wearer. With their rarity, versatility, and symbolism, yellow diamond engagement rings are sure to be a treasured and meaningful piece of jewellery for years to come.

eClarity x BA.SG:  Fancy Blue Diamond Engagement Ring Collection

eClarity x BA.SG: Fancy Blue Diamond Engagement Ring Collection

Blue diamonds are a stunning and rare choice for engagement rings. They are among the rarest coloured diamonds in the world, making them a highly sought-after choice for those who want something truly unique and special.

Blue Diamond in 18k White Gold Tango Setting

Emerald Cut Blue Diamond in 18k Rose Gold

Blue Diamond in 18k White Gold Pave Diamond Setting

Solitaire Engagement Ring in 18k White Gold Trilogy Setting

Pear Shaped Blue Diamond in 18k White Gold

The blue colour of these diamonds is created by the presence of boron atoms within the crystal structure of the diamond. This creates a range of blue hues, from pale sky blue to rich, deep blue.

One of the benefits of blue diamonds is their striking and distinctive appearance. They offer a bold and vibrant contrast to traditional colourless diamonds, making them a popular choice for couples who want to make a statement with their engagement ring.

Blue diamonds are also a symbol of stability and trust, making them a fitting choice for an engagement ring. The cool and calm blue colour of the diamond can represent the unwavering trust and commitment between partners.

When choosing a blue diamond engagement ring, it is important to consider the quality and clarity of the diamond. Look for diamonds with a high quality of cut and clarity, as these factors can greatly affect the overall appearance of the stone.

Due to their rarity and beauty, blue diamond engagement rings can be quite expensive. However, they are an investment in a one-of-a-kind piece of jewellery that will be treasured for a lifetime.

Overall, blue diamond engagement rings are a striking and meaningful choice for couples who want a unique and special symbol of their love and commitment. With their rarity, symbolism, and stunning appearance, blue diamond engagement rings are sure to be a cherished and timeless piece of jewellery for generations to come.