If seeing is believing, just ask to see a selection of 90 pointers. Very few of these diamonds exist, and so the jeweller will often 'move you up' to a one carat, often of a lower quality. Generally, the 90 pointers offer exceptional value if they are well cut and are usually the same diameter as the lower quality caraters. The same scenario holds for (.95 ct, .48ct, 1.45ct, or 1.95ct). To some consumers, not identifying the cut grade may be insignificant. And to be fair, for jewellery sales staff to explain the physics of light within a gem is far more complex than answering questions of colour and clarity. A common tendency is to state that all the diamonds are a "very good" cut. Don't assume they are, unless accompanied by an Accredited certificate. The average cut grade in the marketplace is fair to medium on the left chart, and fair to good on the right chart. Be sure the cutting grade is included with the colour and clarity analysis. If it is not shown, the cut grade will be near the bottom of the scale. (If the jeweller is buying better cuts, the quality will always be indicated). "To accurately explain relationships between cut grades, I can not emphasise enough the need to seek the assistance of a trained specialist," says Allan. "Gemmologists who maintain the highest level of ethics and integrity have attained the degree of Accredited AAP. In most cases their expertise will actually provide the client with the best purchasing value." NEXT PAGE | Colour 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24 Diamond Gallery and Aurias Branded Laser Inscriptions