When buying a pair of shoes, there are many different characteristics that you would look for, such as the style, the color, the size, and even the brand. The same thing goes for buying - and selling - diamonds. Knowing which characteristics are really important is crucial in getting the best value for your diamond when you are ready to sell it. The quality of a diamond depends upon the 5 C's - carat, cut, clarity, color, and certification. The first C we will discuss is certification.

You may be wondering what diamond certification is and if it is really necessary. When you get your diamond certified, you will receive a grading report from a diamond grading laboratory. Aside from making sure that the diamond you own is real, the report also provides information about the basic characteristics of the diamond, such as its measurement, weight, clarity, color, as well as data regarding symmetry, proportion, and polish. There are numerous reputable laboratories that can give you an accurate certification of your diamond, including the American Gemological Society, Gemological Institute of America, International Gemological Institute, HRD Antwerp, and the European Gemological Institute.

Certification makes selling your diamond a lot easier. Simply send the experts at Ralph Mueller & Associates a scanned copy of your certificate via e-mail or fax, and we will offer a price quote based upon the assessment in your certificate. Because you already know the quality of your diamond, you can be sure that you are receiving the right price when you sell to us. Ralph Mueller & Associates has been buying and selling quality diamonds, gold and precious gems in Arizona and throughout the U.S. for over 28 years, and we offer the best prices for your used jewelry.