CDG Diamond Pricing & Valuation 2

Question 1

When a diamond is quoted at '-10 Rap,' what does this mean?

Accepted Answer

The diamond is priced 10% below the Rapaport list price

Answer

A '-10 Rap' quote means the asking price is 10% below the published Rapaport benchmark price for that size and grade combination.

Question 2

A round brilliant diamond has a total depth percentage of 74%. How does this affect its value?

Accepted Answer

It decreases value because excessive depth causes a 'fish-eye' or dark center effect

Answer

A total depth percentage of 74% is well above the ideal range (58–63%), causing light to leak and producing visual defects such as a dark center, which significantly reduces value.

Question 3

In the wholesale diamond market, what does 'cash discount' typically refer to?

Accepted Answer

An additional percentage reduction from Rap price offered when payment is made immediately in cash or equivalent

Answer

Cash discount is an additional percentage off the Rap-based price offered by sellers to buyers who pay immediately, reflecting the seller's desire to avoid credit risk and improve cash flow.

Question 4

Between which clarity grades is the price difference per grade typically most dramatic?

Accepted Answer

FL to IF

Answer

The FL to IF distinction commands one of the largest per-grade price jumps because flawless diamonds are extremely rare and highly sought after by premium buyers.

Question 5

How are melee diamonds (under approximately 0.20 ct) typically priced in the trade?

Accepted Answer

By total parcel weight and quality range, often as a per-carat price for the lot

Answer

Melee diamonds are small and impractical to price individually; they are sold in parcels priced per carat based on average size, color range, and clarity range of the lot.

(CDG) Certified Diamond Grader Practice Test

(CDG) Certified Diamond Grader Practice Test

CDG Diamond Pricing & Valuation 2