What object is used to check the clarity of the diamond?

“I’m in the process of buying a Brian Gavin Signature round diamond online. I am able to locate and identify the inclusions within the diamond using the video provided on the diamond details page, but want to be able to verify the diamond upon receipt. What is the object to check the clarity of the diamond? I can’t remember the name of the device, and thus am unable to run a search for it online. Do you know where can I buy one? Also, do you think it is a good idea to have the clarity of the diamond checked by a local jeweler? The reality being that I’m not certain I will be able to check the clarity with any degree of accuracy, since I don’t really know what I’m doing.”

Using a 10x diamond grading loupe to check clarity:

This photograph shows Brian Gavin using a 10x diamond grading loupe to check the clarity of a diamond. Notice how he holds the loupe with one hand, and the diamond held in tweezers in the other, while the fingers of both hands touch to provide support. The 10x diamond grading loupe is positioned one or two inches from the eyes, and the diamond is most likely going to be about half an inch behind the loupe. The position of the diamond grading loupe and diamond will be adjusted slightly, until the diamond comes into focus. Because inclusions are located within a diamond at different depths, it may be necessary to adjust the position of the loupe a couple of times in order to locate and identify all of the inclusions within the diamond. The most important tip I can give you, is to simply relax and take the time to become comfortable and familiar using a loupe.

Using a 10x diamond grading loupe to evaluate a diamond becomes second nature with time and practice, but it can feel a bit awkward at first. Practice using a diamond grading loupe, by picking up other small objects that you are familiar with, such as a dime, the eraser on a pencil, the end of a paperclip, or even your fingernail. This last suggestion always seems to make women want to run to the nail salon for a manicure. You’ve been warned.

Check clarity with an independent gemologist:

While it is a relatively simple procedure to verify the clarity characteristics of your diamond using a standard 10x diamond grading loupe, which can be purchased online for minimal investment, having the characteristics of your diamond verified by an independent gemologist does provide peace of mind. We do not recommend asking a local jeweler to verify the quality of a diamond purchased online, because very few retail jewelers seem to be able to remain impartial due to the threat that the online diamond market presents to their business.

Thus it is better to consult the services of an independent gemologist, who is does not work for a jewelry store, and who is not affiliated with a jewelry store or diamond brokerage. You can find an independent gemologist by searching the directory provided by the American Society of Appraisers for those under the discipline of gems and jewelry. Once you have the list of results for gem and jewelry appraisers in your vicinity, click on the link for their profile to determine whether they are affiliated with a jewelry store or not. Look for the word “independent” which is a designation which indicates that they are not affiliated with a jewelry store.

Of course, you can always ask us whether we know an independent gemologist or appraiser in your area. We know most of them by reputation, because we’ve all worked in the industry for so many years.