The house · Diamantaires OG
How can I tell if my diamond is really worth anything?
This is the question many people ask themselves before contacting us. And it's the right question to ask — because an unnecessary trip wastes everyone's time. Here are the 5 essential criteria for assessing whether your diamond really has market value.
1. Is the diamond natural?
This is the number one disqualifying criterion. A laboratory-grown diamond (CVD or HPHT) is worth 80 to 95% less than a natural diamond of the same appearance. If your ring was purchased after 2018 at a reduced price, there's a strong chance it's a synthetic diamond. Only a properly equipped gemologist can determine this with certainty.
2. Is there a GIA or IGI certificate?
A GIA certificate (Gemological Institute of America) or IGI is your diamond's passport. It guarantees that the stone is natural and documents its precise characteristics: weight, color, clarity, cut. A certified diamond resells for 15 to 30% more than an uncertified diamond with the same characteristics. Without a certificate, our gemologists can still analyze your stone on site.
3. Carat weight
Below 0.3 carat, the market value of a single diamond is generally limited. Value increases exponentially with weight:
| Weight | Standard quality | High quality |
|---|---|---|
| 0.5 carat | €1,500 – €2,500 | €3,000 – €5,000 |
| 1 carat | €4,000 – €7,000 | €8,000 – €18,000 |
| 2 carats | €12,000 – €22,000 | €25,000 – €60,000 |
4. Is the piece signed by a major house?
A Cartier ring, a Van Cleef & Arpels bracelet or a Boucheron necklace have additional value linked to the house signature. These pieces resell significantly better than an unsigned piece, even with an equal stone quality. The presence of the original box and certificate of authenticity increases the value even further.
5. Color and clarity
A D-F (colorless) diamond or one with VVS-IF clarity is worth much more than a yellowish diamond or one with visible inclusions. If you can see inclusions with the naked eye, the market value will be limited. On the other hand, a visually clean diamond with a beautiful white color can be worth several thousand euros even without a certificate.
What we do not buy
- Laboratory-grown (synthetic) diamonds — virtually no resale value
- Gold-plated or gold-colored metal jewelry with no intrinsic value
- Imitation stones (zirconia, crystal, rhinestones)
- Antique jewelry with no real stone and no house signature
Unsure? Have your diamond appraised free of charge
Our GIA-certified gemologists analyze your stone within minutes and give you an honest answer. The appraisal is free, with no obligation and entirely confidential.
43 Rue Beaubourg, 75003 Paris — no appointment or by appointment
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✉ [email protected]
Our services
Free, no-obligation estimate
Combien valent vos bijoux ?
In-person appraisal by a state-certified gemologist — firm offer, immediate payment, in complete confidentiality.