OUR APPROACH / THE EYE
Judgement is a sequence
of decisions.
We consider the stone in front of us and the purpose it must serve. No single measurement or description settles the decision.
01 / COLOUR
The face-up impression.
Colour is considered through saturation, tone and distribution. We look at the balance across the face of the stone, including areas of windowing or extinction, rather than relying on a colour name alone.
02 / CUT & PROPORTION
Weight and result.
Proportion, outline and optical life are considered together. Recut potential must be weighed against loss of weight, condition and uncertainty. A heavier result is not automatically the preferred result.
03 / CLARITY & CONDITION
What needs to be understood.
Internal features, surface condition and durability concerns belong in the assessment. An attractive first impression does not remove the need for closer examination.
04 / TREATMENT & EVIDENCE
Keep the sources distinct.
House observations are recorded as observations. Treatment and geographic-origin findings retain the issuing laboratory’s wording and scope. An unknown or inconclusive result is not an untreated conclusion.
05 / THE REQUIREMENT
The right stone for the purpose.
A single stone, a pair and a matched set pose different questions. Colour preference, proportions, timeframe and the intended project inform what is appropriate.
06 / THE DECISION
Judgement includes what we decline to buy.
Passing may be the considered decision when balance, condition, treatment uncertainty or the available evidence does not support the requirement. These considerations are House judgement, not a universal grading formula.
PRIVATE ENQUIRY
A conversation begins
with a requirement.
Tell us what you are considering, and what matters to you in a stone.
Begin a private enquiry