When purchasing a diamond ring you should expect to receive an appraisal certificate from an independent gemological appraisal company. This will certify the diamond has been examined and evaluated by trained professional's eyes using a jeweler's loupe, a microscope, and other industry tools. All certificates include the diamond's measurements (in millimeters), carat weight, color, clarity, polish and symmetry.

Another value that can be found on the appraisal certificate is a dollar value. This dollar amount is representative of the retail value or the estimated replacement value, which is needed for insurance purposes.

One should never accept a store's own appraisal, and instead should make sure they are provided with a report from in independent gemological appraisal laboratory. When buying a diamond that is not GIA or EGL certified, it is imperative to make sure that the appraiser who is certifying the diamond has recognizable credentials (i.e. is a qualified GIA graduate gemologists). In short, when buying a diamond, an independent appraisal from a professional unbiased source is key; NO jewelry store appraisals!!