If you have a fine quality diamond on a ring that you need graded, the first thing you need to do is remove it. In no other way can you ensure you will get the best possible price for it. However, there are instances where removing a diamond from its setting is not a good idea. Tension Set Rings Popularized by Niessing in the 1970’s, the men’s diamond tension ring holds its stone in place using tension produced in the metal. While the stone can be taken out, resetting it securely is an impossible thing to do. Luckily, the stone here is sufficiently exposed for a grading to be performed. Fragile Vintage Settings Nine times out of ten, highly fragile vintage rings often feature delicate settings that do not allow the stone to be removed without damaging the setting. This holds true for most of the Victorian and Georgian Era rings. Damaged Diamonds A damaged diamond is best left alone. Instead of removing it, it can be photographed in the setting to aid in assessment. This decides whether removal is a safe option, and if it is, then you are in luck because you can even grade a damaged diamond and have it assessed at a higher value.