One of the differences that set apart Albert’s Pawn Shop is that we have a Certified Diamond Gemologist on staff. This allows for us to educate our customers while they are shopping for the perfect diamond for a loved one in one of our stores. We are in the process of having a second staff member being trained as a Gemologist.
What is a Gemologist?
A gemologist is also known as a jeweler or gem expert. They work with and identify precious stones. Although they might work independently on occasion, gemologists usually work at a jewelry store in the back room, where gem and stone identification and examination is done.
In Albert’s Pawn Shop, the Certified Diamond Gemologist works with all of Albert’s four locations to educate our customers while they are purchasing a diamond in our shops.
Gemology Institute of America
The Gemological Institute of America, or GIA, is a nonprofit institute dedicated to education and research in the field of gemology and the jewelry arts. They were founded in 1931, GIA’s mission is to protect all buyers and sellers of gemstones by setting and maintaining the standards used to evaluate gemstone quality.
What is a Certified Diamond Gemologist
The GIA (Gemological Institute of America is one of the most well-respected and renowned diamond grading entity. They are known to be incredibly consistent and provide the greatest peace of mind when purchasing any diamond. A person that is trained and receives the Certified Diamond Gemologist certification knows this information:
- Diamond’s evaluation date
- Measurements (in millimeters)
- Cutting style and diamond shape
- Carat weight
- Table %
- Depth %
- Culet size
- Symmetry
- Proportion diagram
- Polish grade
- Girdle thickness
- Cut grade (Excellent, Very Good, Good, Poor)
- Color grade (ranging from D to J)
- Clarity grades (IF, VVS1, VVS2, VS1, VS2, SI1, SI2)
- Diamond plot showing all blemishes and inclusions
- Fluorescence grade
- Laser inscription (if applicable)
- Security features
- General comments
One of the most prestigious credentials in the industry, the GIA Graduate Gemologist program gives you the following knowledge:
- Comprehensive knowledge of diamonds
- Technical expertise and practical skills to evaluate 4Cs
- Color, clarity, cut, and carat weight
- The International Diamond Grading System™
- Grade diamonds in the D-to-Z color range
- Detect diamond synthetics, treatments, and simulants
- Recognize when advanced testing is required
- Recognize how color, rarity, and quality affect the value
- Determine how market factors affect diamond value
Pawn Loan
Diamonds typically have both a financial value and sentimental value because it was passed down through generations or it was given to a betrothed prior to a wedding. If you need some cash fast, consider a pawn load to hold you over with a short-term loan but still retain the ownership of this unique diamond. That is the difference between selling and pawning your diamond. You return within the terms of the pawn loan to pay off the loan, and you get your jewelry returned to you to wear again or pass onto your airs.
Stop by one of Albert’s four locations to talk about pawning your jewelry for quick cash.
Albert’s has been family owned and operated since 1927. No matter what part of the Tri-Cities you’re in we have a location to serve you. With two locations in Johnson City (Albert’s Loan Office and Uncle Sam’s Pawn Liquidation), Albert’s Loan Office in Bristol and our newest store, Albert’s Pawn in Kingsport – getting top dollar for your items for pawn loans and finding that item you’ve been looking for at an unbeatable price has never been easier.
