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Diamond Grading Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Tetra Tech

Soils Technician

Diamond Bar, CA · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Our office in Diamond Bar, CA is seeking a Geotechnical/Soils Technician to perform field duties ... The main focus of this position is providing grading observation and field fill placement and ...

Tetra Tech, Inc.

Soils Technician

Diamond Bar, CA · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Our office in Diamond Bar, CA is seeking a Geotechnical/Soils Technician to perform field duties ... The main focus of this position is providing grading observation and field fill placement and ...

Bonhams

Senior Specialist, Jewelry

Manhattan, NY · On-site

Diamond and gemstone grading and identification and the ability to calculate individual and total carat weights * Knowledge of and genuine interest in jewelry, including makers, stylistic periods ...

Bonhams

Senior Specialist, Jewelry

Manhattan, NY

Diamond and gemstone grading and identification and the ability to calculate individual and total carat weights * Knowledge of and genuine interest in jewelry, including makers, stylistic periods ...

Bonhams

Senior Specialist, Jewelry

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$120K - $150K/yr

Diamond and gemstone grading and identification and the ability to calculate individual and total carat weights * Knowledge of and genuine interest in jewelry, including makers, stylistic periods ...

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Diamond Grading information

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How much do diamond grading jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for diamond grading in the United States is $17.48, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.94 and $18.75 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Are Diamond Grading Jobs?

Training as a diamond grader opens up several possible career paths. Positions include a bench jeweler who repairs gems, a designer who creates pieces, and an appraiser who assesses a monetary value. Experience in appraisals, particularly, help individuals seeking work in wholesale trade or with an auction house, allowing better judgments regarding purchases. Research professionals examine current practices and find ways to improve the processing of gems and manufacturing methods. Responsibilities vary according to position and employer. Most opportunities are in a laboratory or office setting with travel more likely in sales-oriented positions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Diamond Grader, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Diamond Grader, you need a solid understanding of gemology, attention to detail, and often a certification such as the GIA Graduate Gemologist diploma. Familiarity with grading tools like microscopes, loupes, and spectrometers, as well as diamond grading systems (e.g., the 4Cs), is typically required. Strong observational skills, integrity, and effective communication help in accurately assessing stones and conveying findings clearly. These competencies are crucial to ensure precise grading, uphold industry standards, and support consumer trust in diamond quality.

What are some common challenges faced by diamond graders and how can they overcome them?

Diamond graders often encounter challenges such as identifying very subtle differences in color, clarity, and cut, which requires intense concentration and a keen eye for detail. Additionally, working under tight deadlines to meet industry demands can be stressful. To overcome these challenges, graders benefit from ongoing training, utilizing standardized grading tools, and collaborating with experienced colleagues for second opinions when uncertain. Maintaining a consistent and methodical approach helps ensure accuracy and reliability in their assessments.

What is diamond grading?

Diamond grading is the process of evaluating the quality and characteristics of a diamond based on specific criteria, often referred to as the 4Cs: Carat weight, Cut, Color, and Clarity. Professional diamond graders use standardized tools and methods to assess these attributes and assign grades that help determine a diamond's value and authenticity. These grades are typically documented on a diamond grading report or certificate, which is essential for buyers, sellers, and appraisers. Accredited organizations like the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) set the industry standards for diamond grading.

What is the difference between Diamond Grading vs Gemologist?

AspectDiamond GradingGemologist
CredentialsGIA Diamond Grading CertificationGIA Gemologist Certification
Work EnvironmentJewelry labs, grading institutionsJewelry stores, appraisal labs, labs, or independent
Industry UsageSpecifically evaluates diamondsEvaluates various gemstones including diamonds
FocusAssessing diamond quality based on 4CsIdentifying, grading, and appraising multiple gemstones

Diamond grading specialists focus specifically on evaluating diamonds using the 4Cs, often holding GIA Diamond Grading Certifications. Gemologists have broader expertise, assessing various gemstones and often holding GIA Gemologist Certifications. While diamond graders specialize in diamond quality, gemologists provide comprehensive gemstone evaluations, making their roles complementary but distinct within the jewelry industry.

More about Diamond Grading jobs
What cities are hiring for Diamond Grading jobs? Cities with the most Diamond Grading job openings:
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Diamond Grading jobs near you
Infographic showing various Diamond Grading job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 13% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $36,348 per year, or $17.5 per hour.
Quality Control Specialist (Onsite)

Quality Control Specialist (Onsite)

Diamonds Direct

New York, NY • On-site

$25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago

Diamonds Direct rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

18th of 28 rated jewelry retailers

Job description

We have many opportunities available on our other career site pages. Click here to link to our careers page!

At Diamonds Direct, we pride ourselves on finding talent with a certain set of characteristics, or what we call, RHINO's. These are individuals with an unmatched work ethic, and are determined to do whatever it takes plus some. They are passionate about what they do and who they do it for, and always take ownership of their work by consistently charging forward. Most importantly, RHINO's exhibit humility, as in order for the business to succeed here, it takes EVERYONE!

Do YOU have what it takes to be a Diamonds Direct RHINO??

DDNY QC Specialist is responsible for inspecting all pieces at various stages of production-from casting and assembly to final polish and stone setting. The goal is to ensure every item meets strict aesthetic, structural, and technical standards before delivery to the client or retail floor.

1. Technical Inspection

  • Stone Setting: Verify the security of all stones (prongs, bezels, channels). Ensure stones are level, properly oriented, and free of chips or "gray" areas.
  • Metal Finishing: Inspect for porosity, scratches, tool marks, or uneven polishing. Ensure plating (e.g., Rhodium) is uniform and high-luster.
  • Structural Integrity: Check hinges, clasps, and jump rings for functionality and durability. Ensure the piece meets specified weight and dimension requirements.
  • Hallmarking: Confirm that metal fineness stamps (e.g., 14K, 18K, PT950) and trademarks are clear and accurate.

2. Process & Compliance

  • Workflow Monitoring: Perform "In-Process QC" to catch errors during the wax or casting stage to minimize metal waste and labor loss.
  • Technical Drawing Alignment: Compare the finished physical product against CAD renderings or "Special Order" instructions to ensure 100% accuracy.
  • Lab-Grown/Natural Screening: Use detection equipment to verify that melee and center stones match the diamond parcel specifications.

3. Reporting & Feedback

  • Defect Tracking: Maintain logs of common failures (e.g., casting porosity or loose stones) to identify training needs for the bench jewelers.
  • Reject Management: Clearly communicate reasons for rejection to the production team and oversee the "re-work" process.

Required Skills & Qualifications

  • Proven industry experience: 2 year minimum
  • Expert Eye: High proficiency using a 10x loupe and microscope for extended periods.
  • Technical Knowledge: Deep understanding of jewelry construction, including soldering, laser welding, and various setting styles (Pave, Micro-set, etc.).
  • Industry Standards: Knowledge of GIA/IGI grading standards and precious metal tolerances.
  • Detail Obsession: Ability to spot microscopic flaws that could affect the long-term wearability of the piece.

Benefits

  • Base pay $22-$25/hr

**Base pay offered may vary depending on geographic region, internal equity, job related knowledge, skills and experience, among other factors.

  • Medical
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • Basic Life Insurance
  • Voluntary Life Insurance
  • Long-Term Disability
  • Short-Term Disability
  • Flexible Spending Account (Medical & Dependent Care)
  • Retirement Plan with Matching
  • Vacation
  • Sick Time
  • Paid Holidays
  • Attractive Employee Discount

Don't forget, we have many opportunities available on our other career site pages. Click here to link to our careers page!

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