When it comes to buying diamonds, it's essential to know what you're doing and with whom you're dealing. That's why it's so important to work with an authority like Mervis Diamond Importers. There are frequent inconsistencies to watch out for when you compare diamonds from various dealers, some of whom may not share the Mervis standard.

To ensure that you're making a valid comparison, here are some common pitfalls to be aware of and the Mervis safeguards against them.

Poor Proportions
Some dealers may talk about color, clarity and carat weight, but neglect or misrepresent cut, the most important C of all. This usually means that the cut is poor and the diamond is inferior. Remember, poorly cut stones leak light and therefore lack beauty.

Even worse, a poorly cut stone is often too small for its weight. This is because the diamond may have a thick girdle, or edge, which makes the stone deep instead of wide. By retaining unnecessary weight, and positioning it incorrectly, the diameter becomes smaller than it should be. For example, although a diamond may weigh 1.00 carat, it may only look like a .90 carat. So either you pay for something you're not getting, or if the price is low enough, the bargain is a "fake" one.

A certificate is helpful, but it's not a cure, since even poorly cut diamonds may be certified. Unless you know how to evaluate the proportions, you could be deceived.

Since all Mervis Diamonds are painstakingly cut and polished to the highest standard, we guarantee superior proportions at Mervis Diamond Importers.

Misgrading
Occasionally diamonds are misrepresented as being a higher grade than they really are.

Every Mervis diamond is carefully graded using strict guidelines. Our clients receive an official appraisal and our guarantee of quality. Most of our diamonds are also accompanied by a certificate from either the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), the European Gemological Laboratory (EGL) or the American Gem Society (AGS), providing an objective analysis of the quality and characteristics of the diamond.

Treated diamonds
There are deceptive methods to temporarily enhance clarity.

Mervis does not sell any diamond that has been artificially altered by fracture filling, laser-drilling, or any other means. Our carefully controlled diamond inventory comes right from the source with no middlemen involved. We take great precautions so you don't have to worry.