Understanding Diamond Resale Value: How Much Is Your Diamond Really Worth?

If you’re considering selling your diamond ring or other diamond jewelry, you’ve likely wondered how much it’s truly worth now. Even if you bought a high-quality diamond at a fair price, it’s normal to expect that you won’t get back what you originally paid. In most cases, diamonds typically fetch around half of their original retail value. Why? Because while diamonds have appreciated in value over time, retail markups play a significant role in what you can realistically expect from resale. Knowing how much your diamond is worth from both a retail and resale perspective is key when deciding to sell.

Why Is the Resale Value Lower Than What You Paid?

One of the fastest ways to estimate your diamond’s value is to contact a reputable buyer, such as Diamond Buyers (recommended by Whiteflash). Our readers consistently report positive experiences and better offers than elsewhere when selling their diamonds to Diamond Buyers. For a more detailed understanding, let’s explore why diamonds tend to sell for less than their original retail price.

Looking to sell your diamond? Explore PriceScope’s trusted vendors like Whiteflash, Blue Nile, James Allen, and Adiamor for the best offers on lab-grown and natural diamonds. Find the perfect diamond buyer or browse their stunning collections to upgrade your jewelry today!

Diamond Resale Value: What Affects It?

Diamond Resale Estimate based in 2021

Image Source: Diamonds USA (2021)

Diamonds do retain resale value, but typically at 20–60% of their original cost. Several factors influence this:

  1. Retail Markup: Jewelry stores charge more than the wholesale price they paid for the diamond. The markup varies by retailer, especially for brick-and-mortar stores which have higher overhead costs like rent and staff salaries.
  2. Market Demand: Pre-owned diamonds are harder to sell, which impacts their resale price. The type of buyer you sell to (jeweler, private buyer, etc.) also influences the offer you’ll receive.

Ultimately, diamonds are more of a luxury good than a financial investment.

Maximize your resale value. Before selling your diamond, visit PriceScope’s vendor network for exclusive access to top buyers and high-quality lab-grown and natural diamonds. You may even find your next dream diamond in their collections.

How Much Can I Sell My Diamond Ring For?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The resale value of your diamond ring depends on:

  • Where you bought it: Retail stores often have significant markups.
  • Quality of the diamond: Aspects like cut, color, clarity, and carat weight play a role.
  • How you choose to sell: Offers can vary depending on whether you sell to a jeweler, private buyer, or a third-party service.

Image Source: Diamond Buyers

When you purchase a diamond from a traditional retailer, you’re paying not just for the stone, but for the retailer’s operating costs. Even online sellers, who generally have lower markups (around 18%), apply a margin. So, regardless of where you sell, expect to receive a portion of your original purchase price, often between 20% and 60%.

Loose Diamonds for Sale at Whiteflash

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Ready to sell? Get access to PriceScope’s reputable vendors, including James Allen and B2C Jewels, for competitive offers and explore stunning diamond jewelry options for your next special piece.

Do Diamonds Increase in Value Over Time?

While there’s a common belief that diamonds are a solid investment, the reality is more complex. Over the long term, diamonds have increased in price, but other factors, such as inflation and the retail markup, make it unlikely that the average diamond will significantly appreciate in value.

  • Historical Trends:The price of diamonds has risen over the last several decades, but inflation has offset much of that gain.
  • Better Alternatives:From an investment perspective, diamonds don’t perform as well as stocks or bonds. For example, $1,000 invested in the stock market in 1960 would have generated far greater returns than buying a diamond.

In short, while diamonds have sentimental and luxury value, they aren’t the best choice for financial investment.

FAQs About Diamond Resale Value

Are diamonds worthless?

No, diamonds still hold value, but they don’t retain their full retail price. In most cases, you can expect to recover around half of what you paid.

Are diamonds a good investment?

Diamonds aren’t a great financial investment compared to traditional options like stocks or real estate. However, they fare better than other luxury goods, like cars, which lose a significant portion of their value immediately after purchase.

Get the most for your diamond! PriceScope’s vendor network offers competitive pricing for your diamond while showcasing beautiful jewelry collections to help you find your next investment piece.

Final Thoughts: What to Expect When Selling

Diamonds do hold resale value, though it’s important to keep your expectations realistic. If you’re looking to sell your diamond ring or other jewelry, we recommend contacting a trusted buyer like Diamond Buyers to get an accurate estimate.

While you won’t make a profit from selling your diamond, understanding the resale process and market factors will help you secure the best possible offer. For more insights on selling, check out our comprehensive guide on selling a diamond ring.

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