Consumers are hearing these labels, but even seasoned professionals can fail to grasp the broad implications of each. Saying ‘painting’ or ‘digging’ is like saying ‘walking’ or ‘running:’ Without context they are merely terms. There are different applications and degrees to each. To assess the net result as additive or subtractive we must know the diamond’s configuration, what degree of painting or digging was done and where on the diamond it occurred.
 
This article identifies both approaches, illustrates the varying degrees and shows notably different results for “superideal” diamonds in numerous categories of painting & digging. Special attention is given to the category of crown-only painting.

 

Dedicated to the memory of Bill “Rockdoc” Lieberum, 1948-2007.

 

The average consumer is often shocked to learn that only a small percentage of “independent appraisers” are unbiased and/or current on continuing education, grading systems, equipment and standards.  Since there are no requirements to be a jewelry appraiser, a vast number of so-called appraisers lack the knowledge, tools or independence to satisfy a well-educated consumer.

 

A commitment to “smart shopping” should not end after researching your seller.  If an appraisal is sought, you should appraise the appraiser with the same tenacity.

 

As a retailer we do not endorse any specific appraiser.  Nevertheless, we took time last year to interview several accredited and respected professionals whom we consider “role models;” well-known in several sectors of the trade.  We hope our questions and their diverse answers about appraisals will be helpful as a guideline for those who do their “smart shopping” globally.

 

- Many thanks to John Pollard for his role in producing this article

You already learned that cut is the most important factor affecting the beauty of a diamond.
 
The aim of this tutorial is to illustrate what it takes to achieve the ultimate in cutting precision and perfection - super ideal cut Hearts and Arrows diamonds.