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How do I read the Rapaport?
When purchasing a diamond at a retail shop, the price that you’ll be offered is in most cases a percentage based on the Rapaport price. In some cases you’ll receive a price 5% less than Rapaport or an even bigger discount, in other cases you’ll get the full price or even a higher price than the list. The offered percentage varies between each diamond seller, depending on market conditions and the current risk of owning diamond inventory. Generally, if diamonds are in scarce supply, they are easier to sell and the discount percentage drops. If the worldwide supply of diamonds is abundant, and they become harder to sell, the discount percentage rises. Also diamonds with certain size-quality combinations may be rarer and in greater demand, causing their discount percentage to be lower.
Are the prices on the Rapaport list always correct for each diamond?
The Rapaport list is a great base to begin from and a vital resource in any diamond search. However, the Rapaport list does not take into account each individual buyer’s tastes. Realistically, each stone must be evaluated by an expert to determine its true value. Make sure to really learn about the diamond you’re buying, especially how well it is cut, rather than just buying based on the amount of discount you’ll get off the Rapaport. Even with the Rapaport, you should still always have an appraiser look at your purchase.
How do I read the Rapaport?
The Rapaport lists diamonds based on three main factors, carat weight, clarity, and color. Diamonds are first separated into grid tables based on carat weight. In these grid tables, Color Grades are listed from D to M in rows, and columns list each Clarity Grade. Each diamond receives prices of $100's per carat based on its position on the grid.
When trying to determine the price of a diamond, follow these steps.
1) obtain the latest Rapaport list (ask your retailer for a copy)
2) find the table that corresponds to the diamond’s carat weight
3) cross-match the diamond’s clarity and color on that table to find the diamond’s Rapaport value
4) Multiply that value by 100 and by the carat weight of the diamond.
(value X 100 X carat weight)
An example of a Rapaport list for round cuts
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