| Renowned for their durability and brilliance, a | | | | diamonds. |
| diamond is the most infamous gemstone in the | | | | 2. Look for an ethical or conflict-free product. |
| world. Because the price and quality of a diamond | | | | Because rough diamonds are easier to sell and |
| can depend heavily on how it is cut and shaped, | | | | unload on the open market, it's important that |
| it's possible to save money by purchasing rough | | | | you don't inadvertently sell an illegally procured or |
| or uncut diamonds for wholesale prices. | | | | unethical diamond. Diamonds that are certified |
| Most buyers who opt to purchase rough | | | | under the U.N.'s voluntary Kimberly Process |
| diamonds then have the diamond cut down into | | | | certification program are conflict-free and their |
| either one or multiple stones by a professional | | | | purchase will not fund arms or military conflict. |
| gem cutter or jeweler. Buyers and jewelers | | | | 3. Always seek an expert's advice. |
| typically go this route if they have a particular | | | | If you can afford it, bring an expert appraiser |
| style or design that they want to fit the diamond | | | | along with you when you go to make your rough |
| into and can't use a standard, already-cut diamond. | | | | diamond purchase. Otherwise, ask the seller for |
| If you're planning to purchase rough diamonds, | | | | an escrow arrangement where the purchase |
| know that this can be a great way to save | | | | funds are held in trust until you can have the |
| money, but it can also be a great way to get | | | | stones appraised by an independent gemologist or |
| scammed. Before you make a rough diamond | | | | lab. If the seller is unwilling to guarantee their |
| purchase, you need to be aware of the product | | | | product or allow for an inspection, look for |
| and the market. So, keep reading for some critical | | | | another seller. |
| tips that will help you with your next rough | | | | 4. Have your rough diamond appraised before and |
| diamond purchase. | | | | after you bring it to a jeweler. |
| 1. Always use an accredited and respected seller. | | | | While jeweler fraud is rare, it does occur. If you're |
| Even though they're not yet cut and shaped, | | | | bringing a rough diamond to a jeweler to have it |
| rough diamonds are still an expensive commodity. | | | | cut and shaped, bring the appraisal with you and |
| As with any major purchase, you should do your | | | | let the jeweler know you'll be having it appraised |
| business with a seller or retailer whom you trust | | | | after the piece is cut. This simple action can |
| and believe is accountable. In turn, stay away | | | | prevent the temptation of fraud or possible |
| from unreliable or potentially suspicious sources | | | | misrepresentation. |
| that could be trying to sell illegally stolen or fake | | | | |