Practical Diamond Grading – PDG6E2604

The Practical Diamond Grading Course (PDG) is a six-day intensive laboratory program designed to provide participants with a structured and methodical introduction to diamond grading in accordance with HRD Antwerp grading standards. The course focuses on the practical application of the 4Cs — Carat Weight, Color, Clarity, and Cut. Participants perform grading exercises using professional laboratory instruments and reference materials under guided supervision. This program is suitable for individuals seeking foundational laboratory skills as well as industry professionals wishing to update or standardize their grading knowledge.

Course Content – Day-Wise Structure

Day 1 – Introduction to Diamonds & Carat Weight

Theory

• Definition and formation of diamonds
• Physical and optical properties
• Overview of international diamond grading systems

Practical

• Estimation of carat weight
• Measurement using calipers and sieves
• Relationship between carat weight and market value

Day 2 – Diamond Color Grading

Theory

• Diamond color grading principles
• GIA D–Z color grading scale
• Impact of color on value

Practical

• Use of master stones
• Face-down color grading methodology
• Differentiation between near-colorless and tinted diamonds
• Factors influencing color appearance

Day 3 – Diamond Clarity Grading

Theory

• Internal and external clarity characteristics
• Natural inclusions and surface features
• Overview of clarity grading scale (LC to P3)

Practical

• Proper use of the 10× loupe
• Microscope observation techniques
• Plotting clarity characteristics
• Introduction to clarity-related treatments (laser drilling, fracture filling)

Day 4 – Diamond Cut Grading

Theory

• Proportions, symmetry, and polish
• Anatomy of the round brilliant cut

Practical

• Use of proportion scopes
• Measurement of table size, depth, crown and pavilion angles
• Assessment of symmetry and polish
• Understanding the relationship between cut and optical performance

Day 5 – Lab-Grown Diamonds & Simulants

Theory

• Overview of CVD and HPHT diamond growth methods
• Key identification criteria
• Differences between natural and lab-grown diamonds

Practical

• Comparative testing of natural and lab-grown diamonds
• Final practical 4C grading exercise

Day 6 – Revision & Practical Examination

• Structured revision
• Final practical assessment

Training Methodology

• Instructor-led classroom sessions
• Structured laboratory exercises
• Individual practical assignments
• Supervised grading practice
• Revision and assessment

Laboratory Facilities

Training is conducted in classrooms equipped with professional diamond grading workstations, including:

• Diamond grading lamps
• Microscopes
• UV lamps
• 10x loupe
• Calipers and sieves
• HRD Antwerp Master Stones Sets

Course Materials

Each participant receives an HRD Antwerp Diamond Grading Kit, which includes:

• Tweezer
• 10× loupe
• Gem cloth
• Plotting pen set
• Pencil

Assessment & Certification

• Participants who successfully complete the theory and practical assessment will receive a Certificate of Completion – Practical Diamond Grading Course (PDG) issued by HRD Antwerp.
• Participants who combine this course with the Certified Diamond Grader (CDG) Online Module (recorded or live) are eligible to obtain the HRD Antwerp – Certified Diamond Grader (CDG) Diploma, subject to successful completion of all required assessments.