About two thirds of engagement-ring diamonds in the US are round. That makes the resale market for them the most liquid and competitive of any shape, which generally helps the seller.
Why round resells best
Two reasons. First, demand: round is the default shape for new engagement rings, so buyers always have downstream customers. Second, grading certainty: round is the only diamond shape with a full GIA cut-grade scale (Excellent, Very Good, Good, Fair, Poor). For fancy shapes, cut quality is judged subjectively, which pushes buyers to discount.
What yours is worth
Round brilliants resell for 30% to 50% of original retail on the higher end of the diamond resale range. For specific dollar figures by size, see 1 carat, 2 carat, or 3 carat.
How to sell
Get a GIA report if you do not have one — a round diamond without a cut grade leaves money on the table. Sell to professional buyers, not pawn shops, and compare at least two offers. Selling online by insured mail is usually the cleanest path.
FAQ
- Do round diamonds sell for more than fancy shapes?
- Yes. Round brilliants resell for 10% to 20% more than fancy shapes (oval, cushion, princess, emerald) at the same carat and grades. Demand is broader and the cut grade is standardized, so buyers price them with less risk discount.
- What makes a round diamond hold value?
- Cut grade first, then color and clarity. A GIA Excellent cut returns far more light than a Good cut and sells for noticeably more. Round is the only shape with a standardized cut grading scale.
- Should I sell a round diamond loose or in its setting?
- It depends on the setting. A generic setting adds little value and can be removed without hurting the resale. A branded setting (Tiffany, Cartier) is worth keeping intact because the brand adds resale value.
Other shapes
- Sell an oval diamond
- Sell a princess cut diamond
- Sell a cushion cut diamond
- Sell an emerald cut diamond
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