Pre-Auction Analysis: October 7th, 2022, Sotheby’s Hong Kong, Magnificent Jewels

Our Sotheby’s Hong Kong Pre-Auction Analysis focuses on elements that are not always visible to the untrained eye. We discuss characteristics such as Inner-Grade, Color Dispersion, and Undertone – collectively termed IDU. Professionals use the IDU method intuitively when analyzing a Fancy Color Diamond. The acronym we use makes these elements easier to remember. 

Members who read this analysis should see it as a valuable supplement to the GIA report. A detailed explanation of the FCRF’s grading methodology can be found at the end of this article. We recommend reviewing it closely to broaden one’s professional vocabulary for describing fancy color diamonds to clients.  

Please note that we analyze and grade diamonds under LED lights and relative to their grade on the GIA report.

The Grades

We use grades 1, 2, 3, and 4, with 1 being the lowest grade. Grade “4+” is granted in rare cases and denotes stones with exceptional characteristics. Stones that receive a minimum total IDU score of 9 without a red remark pass the industry premium threshold and can be traded easily. Fancy Color Diamonds that are graded 10 or above (without a quality remark) are usually sought after by high-end jewelers and collectors.

For your convenience, we have added direct links to diamonds’ GIA reports and FCRF rarity stats.

• All images in this analysis were taken with an iPhone 13 Pro; no filters were applied.
• All auction valuations are per-carat and listed in US Dollars.

Disclaimer

This analysis reflects the opinions of the FCRF professional team. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or not buy a particular diamond. Buyers assume the responsibility of verifying any information with the auction house. At times, mistakes can happen in the visual analysis and report placement. Therefore, one should not rely solely on this analysis for buying purposes.

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Lot: 1831

Description: 5.02 ct, Pear, Fancy Yellow-Green, SI1

High Auction Estimation: $ 30,454 pc

Price Realized: $24,940 pc

Rarity: Click Here 

GIA Report: View 

Analysis: 

A relatively large green pear-shaped diamond with ~40% yellow color as a modifier in the color mix. The Inner-Grade is very high, though we must consider the fact that the stone’s pavilion and girdle are completely immersed in gold, which may have a