4: Sorting

Sorting is a science and an art. With more than 12,000 different categories of diamonds, it takes a trained eye and years of experience, supported by the latest diamond sorting technology, to determine each rough diamond’s value based on its cut, colour, clarity, and carat size (or the 4Cs, as they’re known).

At the world’s largest and most advanced diamond sorting facility in Botswana, expert sorters examine selections of diamonds straight from the mine. Increasingly, highly skilled sorters in Botswana, Namibia and South Africa are handling their own countries’ precious resource.

Every diamond is unique. Determining its shape or ‘model’ is a key part of the sorting process. That will often determine the final size and shape of the polished jewel. Sorted diamonds are scrutinised by clients, known as Sightholders, who are supplied with the rough diamonds they need for their diamond cutting and jewellery making requirements.