Worths Diamonds

PROPORTIONS AND CLASS

Around the world, different bodies are involved in setting international standards for diamonds. GIA (Gemological Institute of America) EGL (European Gem Labs) AGS (American Gem Society) IGI (International Gemological Institute) HRD (Diamond High Council) are all highly regarded. Here in Australia, Gem Studies Laboratory (Worths' choice) set standards perhaps even tougher, than GIA, (which is probably the best known internationally and creator of the famous four C's). Although the standards are rigid, each lab establishes its valuation differently. Some judge a little more softly; but you won't be doing yourself any favours by deliberately seeking the soft judgement.

That's why Worths' preferred option is Gem Studies Laboratory of Australia, with their unflinchingly rigid standards. But of course we'll deal with any reputable laboratory a customer requests.

Ultimately, all recognised labs make useful contributions. GIA for instance, makes it easier to decide if a diamond is well proportioned by dividing all cut diamonds into four classes. Class One and Class Two diamonds are well-proportioned; Class Three and Class Four are not.

Class One diamonds are investment-quality; beautifully proportioned and priced to match. Class Two diamonds are a little less perfect. For a beautiful diamond to wear, Class Two can be a good buy.

Terms like American Ideal, Tolkowsky Cut, Ideal Make, the AGS 0 and Hearts and Fire all refer to Class One diamonds. They stand for perfection. However it is interesting that although they demand an average 15% to 20% premium in price, they actually deliver an average increase in brilliance and dispersion of less than 4%. The decision of course, is yours.