Certified or not • Photo estimates • Local and mail-in options
Sell Loose Diamonds in Northbrook, IL
Selling a loose stone can feel confusing at first. However, it becomes much easier when you work with a local diamond buyer who explains the pricing factors in plain language. Whether your diamond has a certificate or not, you can start with a quick estimate and then move forward only if the offer makes sense.
If your loose diamond is certified
First, look at the report. If it’s a GIA certificate, you can share the report number and the key grades. In many cases, that information lets us give a very tight price range before you even schedule a meeting. Next, if the certificate comes from another lab, we can still provide a useful estimate. That said, we may need a visual inspection to confirm the final grading.
- Best-case for accuracy: GIA report with full details
- Still workable: IGI, EGL, or other lab report (final offer after inspection)
- No report: we estimate from known details and confirm in person
If your loose diamond is not certified
Don’t panic—this is common. To begin, share what you know: shape, approximate size, and whether it was previously set. If you have no details at all, you can get a quick check at a local jeweler. Ask them to confirm whether the stone is real and to weigh it. Then, if they can also give a rough color and clarity opinion, you’ll have enough to start a meaningful estimate.
Helpful details to send
- Top-down photo in bright, indirect light
- Side photo that shows the depth
- Carat weight (or millimeter measurements if available)
- Any known history (heirloom, upgrade, estate piece)
Additionally, remember that not all “lots” price the same way. A single larger stone often outperforms a collection of very small diamonds, because market demand works differently. Therefore, we evaluate the best selling path for your specific stone type before we finalize a number.
How we keep the process fast and clear
Since we work by appointment, we can focus on one seller at a time. That means you get attention, not a rushed counter offer. During the evaluation, we confirm the stone’s identity, review the visible features, and connect the offer to real market demand.
What happens next
- Estimate: you share photos and any paperwork, then we reply with a range.
- Evaluation: we meet in a private office in Northbrook, or we discuss insured shipping.
- Offer: we provide a clear number once we confirm the details.
- Decision: you accept or decline—either way, you stay in control.
Finally, if you’re also selling a setting, matching earrings, or other pieces, mention that up front. Bundling items can change the final offer, and it can also reduce back-and-forth.
Common misconceptions (and what to do instead)
Many sellers start with an insurance appraisal number. However, appraisals usually reflect replacement cost, not resale value. So, while that document can help you describe the item, it doesn’t set the cash market price.
Likewise, online “diamond calculators” can be misleading if they assume perfect cut grades or ignore condition and demand. Instead, use them only as a rough learning tool and then verify with a professional evaluation.
Finally, if you want the strongest offer, avoid unnecessary cleaning solutions or harsh chemicals before you visit. A quick wipe with a soft cloth is enough, and then we can assess the stone safely.