When you inherit a piece of jewelry or own a ring set with a diamond, one question often comes up:
Is my diamond still worth anything?
For a long time, diamonds have been regarded as a symbol of wealth and prestige. However, the market has changed significantly in recent years, particularly with the emergence of lab-grown diamonds.
So, how can you determine the true value of a diamond in 2026?
Why don't diamond prices follow the price of gold?
Unlike gold, diamonds are not uniformly priced on the stock market.
For gold:
✔ The value of one gram of gold is determined each day;
✔ The course is recognized worldwide;
✔ The value is easy to calculate.
When it comes to diamonds, it's much more complex.
Each stone is unique, and its value depends on several factors.
The 4 Criteria That Determine a Diamond's Value
Professionals use what are known as the 4Cs:
Carat (weight)
A carat is a unit of weight for diamonds.
The heavier the diamond, the higher its value may be.
Cut (size)
The quality of the cut directly affects the stone's brilliance.
A perfectly cut diamond reflects more light.
Color (color)
The most sought-after diamonds are generally the most colorless ones.
The whiter and purer the stone, the greater its value.
Clarity (purity)
Clarity refers to the inclusions or imperfections present inside the diamond.
The fewer visible imperfections there are, the rarer the diamond is.
Why can two diamonds of the same size have very different prices?
Two one-carat diamonds can sometimes have very different values.
The difference can be explained by:
- color;
- purity;
- the quality of the cut;
- the presence of a certificate;
- the origin of the stone.
That is why a thorough estimate is essential.
Does the certificate play an important role?
Yes.
For high-quality gemstones, a certificate issued by a recognized laboratory can have a significant impact on their value.
The best-known certificates include:
- GIA
- HRD
- IGI
They make it possible to precisely identify a diamond's characteristics.
Natural diamonds or synthetic diamonds: What's the difference?
This has been one of the major trends in the market in recent years.
Natural diamond
It formed naturally deep within the Earth over millions of years.
Its rarity contributes to its value.
Synthetic diamond
It is created in a laboratory but has virtually the same physical characteristics as a natural diamond.
However, its market value is generally much lower.
The massive influx of synthetic diamonds has had a significant impact on the global diamond market.
Have diamonds lost their value?
The diamond market has undergone several significant changes.
Unlike gold, which has a closely watched international price, the price of diamonds depends more on:
- of the request;
- of scarcity;
- market trends;
- the supply of synthetic diamonds.
As a result, the value of certain categories of diamonds has declined in recent years, while rare, certified stones continue to be in high demand.
What should you do when a diamond is set in a gold piece of jewelry?
In many cases, diamonds are found in:
- engagement rings;
- alliances;
- pendants;
- bracelets;
- antique jewelry.
During an appraisal, it is important to evaluate the following separately:
✔ the value of the precious metal;
✔ the potential value of the stones.
This distinction allows for a more accurate appraisal of the piece of jewelry.
How can you determine the true value of your diamond?
It is very difficult to appraise a diamond with the naked eye.
Professional expertise makes it possible, in particular, to:
- measure the stone;
- identify its quality;
- verify its authenticity;
- check for the presence of a certificate;
- assess their overall condition.
Have your jewelry appraised for free
Do you own a ring, a pendant, or a vintage piece of jewelry set with diamonds?
The experts at Agence de l’Or welcome you to our branches in:
📍 Braine-l’Alleud
📍 Wavre
📍 Woluwe-Saint-Pierre
📍 Rixensart
📍 La Louvière
📍 Charleroi
We offer a free, no-obligation appraisal to help you better understand the value of your jewelry and precious metals.