The Ultimate Guide to Diamond Certification

One of the most prized gems in the world, diamonds' value is frequently based on the certification of the stone. But what does diamond certification actually entail and how does it affect your stone? We'll delve into the world of diamond certification in this comprehensive guide and cover everything you need to know about this crucial component of diamond quality and value.

What is Diamond Certification?

Diamond certification is the process of having an independent gemological laboratory assess and confirm the qualities and features of a diamond. The primary goal of diamond certification is to give purchasers confidence that the diamond they are buying is genuine, unaltered, and complies with the minimum cut, color, and clarity standards established by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA).

Why is Diamond Certification Important?

When buying a diamond, certification is essential because it guarantees that buyers will get the quality they expect. Buyers can more easily compare diamonds from various sources using the certification report's independent verification of the diamond's value and standardized grading system.

Uncertified diamonds typically have lower quality and less value in the secondary market than certified diamonds. Consequently, buying a certified diamond can give consumers assurance and peace of mind.

Understanding the Different Types of Diamond Certification Systems

Despite the popularity and reliability of the GIA grading system, there are a few other certifications to be aware of, including those from AGS, IGI, EGL, GSI, and HRD.

American Gem Society (AGS)

A group of jewelers established the American Gem Society in 1934 with the goal of "protecting the jewelry-buying public from fraud and false advertising." On a scale of 0 to 10, with 0 being the best and 10, they rate cut, color, clarity, and carat. Jewelers, retailers, and suppliers make up the three thousand-member AGS, which is regarded as a reliable source for diamond certification.

International Gemological Institute (IGI)

Since its founding in 1975, the International Gemological Institute has grown to include 18 laboratories across the globe. IGI grades both finished jewelry items and loose diamonds, and it was the first gemological institute to fully grade lab-grown diamonds starting in 2005.

Carat weight, clarity grade, color grade, cut (shape and style), finish, fluorescence, plotting, and proportions are frequently included in reports from European Gemological Laboratories (EGL). Additionally, they are frequently thought to have lower grading standards.

High Council for Diamonds (HRD)

Hoge Raad voor Diamant (HRD), located in Antwerp, Belgium—a geographical location synonymous with diamonds—issues certificates for diamonds and gemstones primarily in Europe. The company employs a "double coding system" and offers reports for natural, lab-grown, and treated diamonds.

Gemological Institute of America (GIA)

The most well-known and reputable organization for grading diamonds is the GIA (Gemological Institute of America). Established in the 1930s, they are known for the greatest security and consistency in certification which can be counted on every time you purchase a diamond.

How Does GIA grade diamonds?

The GIA evaluates diamonds using a variety of criteria because it doesn't profit from the sale of diamonds, including:

  • Evaluation date for Diamond
  • Measurements (in millimeters)
  • The shape of a diamond and how it's cut
  • Carats
  • Table %
  • Depth %
  • Table %
  • Symmetry
  • Proportion diagram
  • Polish grade
  • Girdle Thickness
  • Color grade (ranging from D to J)
  • Score for clarity (IF, VVS1, VVS2, VS1, VS2, SI1, SI2)
  • Diamond plot that shows all of its flaws and imperfections.
  • Fluorescence level
  • Laser engraving (if applicable)
  • Security
  • Additional Information

The most arbitrary GIA scales, Color and Clarity, are given more weight. Because they have a good reputation, have a track record of dependability, and have been around for a while, we advise only purchasing diamonds with a GIA or AGS certificate. Now, even lab-created diamonds are eligible for GIA certification.

How to Look at a Diamond Certificate and Understand it

A few things to look for on a diamond's certificate include:

  • The diamond's grading date
  • The report ID
  • Form and cutting style (i.e. round brilliant)
  • Measurements

The results of the carat weight, color grade, clarity grade, and cut grade grading will then be listed on the certificate. As additional grading criteria, polish, symmetry, and fluorescence are included. A profile view of the diamond with its precise dimensions and clarity characteristics is also included on the certificate. On the GIA website, you can view an illustration of a diamond grading report.

The Factors that Determine a Diamond's Value

When purchasing a diamond, certifications from agencies like the GIA, AGS, JAGS, and others are essential. Making an informed choice will be made easier for you if you are aware of the differences between each certification. The carat weight, cut, clarity, and color of a diamond are the four main determinants of its value, also known as the "4Cs." The most important aspect of a diamond is its carat weight, with diamonds with higher carat weights being more valuable than those with lower carat weights. The value of a diamond also rises with higher grades of cut and color.

Grading and Assessment of Diamonds

Diamond grading is the process of assessing a diamond's quality based on its physical attributes, also referred to as the "4 Cs" (Carat, Cut, Clarity, and Color). The main elements that influence a diamond's worth and general appearance are known as the 4 Cs.

Independent gemological laboratories with accreditation grade diamonds. These laboratories employ qualified gemologists who use particular instruments and procedures to assess a diamond's quality. They create thorough reports that include a diagram of the inclusions and flaws in the diamond as well as an accurate evaluation of the diamond's 4 Cs.

Given that the grading procedure varies from laboratory to laboratory, it is crucial to keep in mind that diamond grading can occasionally be arbitrary and loose. As a result, it's crucial to choose a trustworthy and accredited laboratory for diamond grading and to have a basic understanding of the 4 Cs.

What is the difference between diamond certification and diamond grading?

Two distinct ideas in relation to diamonds are diamond certification and diamond grading. Diamond certification, also referred to as diamond grading, is the process of assessing a diamond's qualities to establish its worth. A certified gemologist typically performs this assessment, using tools to gauge the diamond's cut, color, clarity, and carat weight. This influences the diamond's general quality and cost.

On the other hand, diamond grading is a more individualized process that involves looking at a diamond's visual characteristics. The diamond's overall beauty and value are determined by its shape, size, cut, color, and clarity. A certified gemologist or another expert with an eye for judging diamond quality typically performs the grading. Diamond grading, in contrast to diamond certification, is more of an art than a science and doesn't use any tools.

What is the cost of diamond certification?

Several variables can greatly affect the price of diamond certification. These factors include the diamond's size, the quantity of certifications needed, and the kind of certification. Certification typically costs between $100 and several hundred dollars, with some exceptions. In some circumstances, the price of certification may even be incorporated into the price of the diamond. To find out how much the specific diamond certification procedure will cost, do your research.

How long does diamond certification take?

Depending on the characteristics of the gemstone and the workload of the laboratory, the complicated process of certifying a diamond may take several weeks or even months. In most cases, laboratories can deliver a preliminary report in less than a week, but a complete report and certification may take several weeks or even months. The procedure starts with a preliminary examination and assessment of the diamond, followed by more tests and verification. In order to ascertain the properties of the diamond and to ensure that it is not a synthetic or imitation diamond, the laboratory will also conduct a gemological analysis. The laboratory will provide a thorough report attesting to the diamond's authenticity once the diamond has been certified.

How reliable is diamond certification?

It's critical to realize that when it comes to diamond certification, the validity of the certifying source is crucial. The three most reputable and trustworthy organizations for diamond certification are the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), the American Gem Society (AGS), and the International Gemological Institute (IGI). Before issuing a certificate, these organizations identify the characteristics of a diamond using cutting-edge technology and scientific analysis. Additionally, they offer an additional layer of assurance that a diamond's qualities comply with the requirements. Additionally, certifying bodies will give a thorough breakdown of the diamond's attributes, including its color, clarity, cut, and carat weight. This piece of paperwork is crucial for assuring buyers that the diamond they are buying is exactly what they expect it to be and for confirming the diamond's authenticity and quality.

What are the benefits of diamond certification?

A useful tool for guaranteeing the authenticity and caliber of diamonds is diamond certification. A certified gemologist certifies diamonds by assessing their qualities, including their color, clarity, and carat weight. Buyers and sellers can feel secure knowing their diamond is real and of the highest caliber by obtaining certification.

Being certified adds to the trust factor because it ensures that the diamond satisfies the standards established by the certifying body. For buyers looking for a diamond with a particular set of qualities, this can be especially helpful. Additionally, certification raises the diamond's value, which is especially advantageous for sellers.

Furthermore, a lot of reputable diamond retailers require certification for their stones and might not accept uncertified diamonds. This indicates that it would be advantageous for you to have uncertified diamonds certified before you buy or sell them. In particular, diamonds that have been sold on the secondary market require certification.

Overall, diamond certification is a helpful procedure that guarantees the genuineness and caliber of diamonds and offers buyers and sellers alike peace of mind.

Key Considerations Before Buying a Diamond

Understanding the various diamond certifications and their advantages is essential before making a diamond purchase. GIA, IGLOO, and AGS are the three main organizations that certify diamonds. The majority of jewelers and diamond dealers accept and respect the GIA certificate. In Europe, IGLOO is the second-most reputable certification and is accepted by numerous jewelers and diamond dealers. The AGS certification is the least regarded and is only accepted by a small number of diamond dealers and jewelers. You can purchase a diamond with confidence if you are aware of these certifications.

Conclusion

In conclusion, evaluating a diamond's value and quality requires careful consideration of its certification. You now have a thorough understanding of diamond certification, including the various types of certificates, what they signify in terms of a diamond's value, how diamonds are graded, and the important factors to take into account before purchasing a diamond. When buying a diamond, be sure to keep these things in mind and select a certification that suits your requirements and preferences.

FAQ

What role does diamond certification play?

All diamonds must be certified because it authenticates and describes the product you're buying. Without a certificate from an established lab, there is no way to verify that the diamond you are purchasing is what the seller claims. A diamond certificate contains details about the diamond, including the carat weight, color grade, and cut quality. When purchasing something as expensive as a diamond, it is especially important to have proof for what you're buying.

Do I really need a certificate for my diamond?

Yes, a certificate is necessary for your diamond as without one, you won't know what you're getting. Details like carat weight, cut quality, color grade, clarity, and more are verified by a certificate. You won't even be able to tell if the diamond is real or fake without a certificate.

What distinguishes a certified diamond from one that isn't certified?

In contrast to non-certified diamonds, certified diamonds have undergone evaluation and certification by a third-party lab. Certified diamonds can be trusted more because a professional gemologist has confirmed their authenticity. It can be challenging to verify whether the color and cut quality of an uncertified diamond are as good as the seller claims. As a result, we only suggest diamonds that have been certified by recognized laboratories like the GIA and AGS.

What distinguishes a diamond certificate from a diamond grading report?

Nothing! While other grading labs refer to them as grading reports, some call their reports certificates. Both offer details about a diamond that a gemologist has examined visually.

What does it mean if a diamond is "certified"?

Certification means that a gemological laboratory has examined, weighed, and measured the diamond. The lab will also have issued a diamond certificate that states the characteristics of the diamond and its corresponding grade. A certified diamond is a diamond that has been reviewed, evaluated, and certified by a professional gemologist.

Jewelry Store Dallas

Learn what the community says about of Bova Diamonds

Similar Blogs from Bova

Visit our Store

Are you looking for an engagement ring? Or perhaps a particular piece of jewelry? Visit us at our Jewelry Store the World Trade Center in Dallas, TX Call (214) 744-7668 or click below to book and appointment today. Book an Appointment