Are Solitaire Diamonds Worth More?

The name solitaire comes from the French for lonely, and simply refers to a single diamond. Single diamonds are most often associated with engagement rings but are also used in earrings and pendants, set by themselves to showcase their exquisite beauty. The simplicity of a single diamond is chic, understated but striking, unencumbered by embellishment. Sometimes the precious stone will be on a raised setting to make it stand out even more prominently, viewed from all angles, highlighting the ‘sparkle’ of the diamond.

^{A 5.75ct diamond solitaire ring}

^{Sold for £43,000}

However, a diamond is not worth more simply because it is a solitaire. Natural diamonds are worth at least 40-50% more than their lab-grown counterparts, and subsequent value is determined by the 4Cs (Cut, Carat Weight, Clarity, and Colour), which has been the universal method for assessing and certifying diamonds since 1940. 

In practical terms, single diamonds can be any size or weight, with prices rising steadily for gems in size up to 1 carat (approx. 6.5mm), and then dramatically for sizes above that. The cut of the stone can indicate the wastage incurred. For example, a round cut will result in less wastage than an emerald cut which, in turn, can affect the value or price of the diamond. Almost all natural diamonds will have inclusions (internal faults) and blemishes (external faults) which, although invisible to the naked eye, can affect light reflection and ‘sparkle’ and, for white diamonds, the closer to colourless (D grade) the more desirable.

^{A diamond solitaire ring, featuring a light yellow round brilliant-cut diamond of 8.62ct}

^{Sold for £41,000}

With so many variables’ prices jump by many tens of thousands of £/$ per carat for the same size diamond depending on its colour and clarity.  While some markets will place value on carat weight over colour and clarity (mainly the American market), others prefer colour and clarity.

Essentially, the larger the diamond and the higher the quality, the higher the value, but to get the maximum value for a solitaire diamond it would need to be certified. Not all certification is equal and therefore it is very important that your diamond is certified by a reputable lab. The market would discount certification of a diamond set in a piece of jewellery so, at Dawsons, we have our solitaire diamonds unset, certified by the internationally renowned DeBeers Institute of Diamonds, and then reset.

^{A large diamond solitaire ring, featuring a marquise-cut diamond of 7.09ct}

^{Sold for £37,000}

Once the diamond is certified, the value can be determined using diamond trading network intelligence such as the RapNet Price List and the Rapaport Weekly Market Comment, a global round-up of the diamond market and its variances.

 At Dawsons, our specialist team in the Jewellery Department can help you with the certification and subsequent valuation of your diamond to ensure that consistency and accuracy informed by global markets is used across our estimate ranges. 

Our experts will assist you at every stage in the selling process, from collection and logistics to the marketing and sale of your diamond. Our bespoke in-house marketing reaches a huge global audience creating a competitive bidding environment and therefore commanding the maximum return on your solitaire diamond at auction.

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How Can I Sell My Diamond Ring for the Most Money?

Are you considering selling a solitaire diamond?

With access to over 10 million known bidders, Dawsons can secure the best price for you.

Get in touch with an expert Valuer for confidential sales advice, we would be delighted to help:

0207 431 9445 / info@dawsonsauctions.co.uk