By Gina D’Onofrio
They say diamonds are like snowflakes—no two are alike. Well, it appears the same goes for lab reports. The demand for diamond grading reports has increased in this age of online trading and mistrust. To consumers, they provide a sense of validation of a diamond’s ‘pedigree.’ Labs may come and go, but there will always be differences of opinion regarding diamond grading standards and the subjective element of the process itself. What is an appraiser to do?
We all know the scenario: Mr. Smith comes to your office with a new diamond in hand, along with a report from XYZ lab. He needs an appraisal to insure the stone, but he’s also seeking verification. You grade the diamond only to find your opinion of colour, clarity, or both are different to that of XYZ lab. Now what? Before you give your client what is sure to be unwelcome news, verify your own lab is in check and the ‘discrepancy’ is not your own doing.
