DCA Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield DCA facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. Which type of ring setting holds a diamond using four or six thin metal prongs? → Prong setting
2. What is the primary purpose of maintaining accurate professional documentation? → To create a legal record of services and support continuity of care
3. How does an 'Identification Report' differ from a full diamond grading report? → It confirms a stone is a diamond but does not grade the 4Cs in detail
4. Which characteristic of a diamond would typically result in a LARGER discount to Rapaport (lower relative price)? → Poor proportions with visible inclusion clusters
5. Which diamond shape is cut to maximize carat weight retention from an octahedral rough crystal? → Princess cut
6. How should a Certified Diamond Council of America Diamond Specialist professional handle situations beyond their expertise? → Refer to a qualified specialist and communicate transparently with the client
7. Why is it important to use high-quality materials in jewelry repair? → To maintain the jewelry's quality and longevity
8. What is a 'halo setting' in engagement ring design? → A ring of small diamonds surrounding the center stone
9. The AGS cut grading system uses a numerical scale rather than descriptive words. What number represents the ideal cut? → 0
10. Which of the following best describes the concept of 'diamond price per carat' as it relates to total stone weight? → Price per carat increases as total carat weight increases because larger stones are rarer
11. The Yehuda process is a well-known proprietary method for which type of diamond treatment? → Fracture filling
12. What is the appropriate response to witnessing unethical conduct by a colleague? → Report the conduct through established channels and document observations
13. On a GIA diamond grading report, the term 'clarity characteristics' refers to what? → Internal and external features used to determine clarity grade
14. When valuing a fancy-colored diamond, why is the Rapaport Price List less directly applicable? → Fancy-colored diamonds trade on unique attributes that standard price grids cannot capture
15. Which U.S. federal law incorporates the Kimberley Process requirements and restricts the import of conflict diamonds? → The Clean Diamond Trade Act of 2003
16. What notation does a GIA grading report use to indicate that a diamond has undergone fracture filling? → GIA does not grade fracture-filled diamonds and returns them without a report
17. What is the most important principle in professional Certified Diamond Council of America Diamond Specialist practice? → Maintaining competence through continuous learning and adherence to standards
18. What is the significance of the C.I.T.I.E.S. agreement for diamond trade? → It ensures that diamond trade does not harm endangered ecosystems
19. What is clarity in diamond grading? → The diamond's clarity, or lack of imperfections
20. How should Certified Diamond Council of America Diamond Specialist professionals approach quality improvement? → Through systematic evaluation of outcomes and implementation of evidence-based changes
21. A customer who speaks limited English is relying on a family member to translate during a diamond purchase. What ethical consideration is most important? → Confirm the customer's comprehension and consent directly, not just the translator's
22. When presenting a diamond, using descriptive, sensory language such as 'Notice how the light dances across every facet' is an example of: → Experiential or emotional selling
23. Which of the following is NOT a capability of modern automated diamond grading systems (e.g., Sarine Loupe)? → Automated color grade assignment meeting GIA standards
24. An independent retailer wants to go beyond KP compliance. Which additional step would most meaningfully enhance their ethical sourcing practices? → Joining or purchasing from suppliers certified by the Responsible Jewellery Council
25. Under KPCS rules, what must accompany every shipment of rough diamonds crossing an international border? → A tamper-resistant container with a government-issued Kimberley Process Certificate
26. Which of the following best describes a 'Type IIa' diamond classification? → Has no measurable nitrogen or boron, often colorless or near-colorless
27. What does diamond certification ensure? → It confirms that the diamond meets industry standards for quality
28. What is the role of active listening in customer service? → It ensures that the customer feels heard and valued
29. What is the primary reason that diamonds with fluorescence are often sold at a discount compared to non-fluorescent stones of equivalent color and clarity? → Many buyers perceive fluorescence negatively, though it rarely affects appearance
30. What does a 'fluorescence' rating of 'Strong Blue' on a diamond report typically affect? → The diamond's appearance in daylight, sometimes improving color in lower-color grades