Diamond Grading

Subject: Diamond Grading Tue Mar 29, 2011 9:09 pm

Diamond Grading
Certified diamond reports, prepared by a diamond grading laboratory, help buyers make informed decisions when purchasing a diamond. Diamond laboratories use qualified gemologists to grade and certify diamonds. The 4C’s of carat, cut, clarity and color provide the main considerations for a diamond grade. Three of the most popular laboratories are the GIA, AGS and IGI.
GIA Offers the Most Respected Diamond Certifications in the World

GIA (Gemological Institute of America) is the world’s oldest and respected diamond rating laboratory. Established in 1931, GIA developed the 4C grading system. GIA operates as a non-profit organization focused on research to improve the science of gemology. GIA certificates note a diamond’s flaws with a diagram. Their certifications rank among the most consistent and trusted in the jewelry world. GIA adheres to very strict grading standards. Diamonds with a quality between two grades are always downgraded by GIA.

Standards for Diamond Certification are Most Strict at AGS

Created to protect consumers, AGS (American Gem Society) developed easy to read reports buyers can use to compare different diamonds. With even stricter standards than GIA, AGS rates diamonds according to how they meet the standards of an ideal brilliant diamond. To do this, they determine how closely a diamond meets the mathematical measurements representing the ideal diamond. They also evaluate the diamond’s natural characteristics. AGS only certifies loose diamonds. Their reports can be verified on their website to be sure they are not fake.

IGI Standards Can Be Less Consistent Than Other Laboratories

The International Gemological Institute, or IGI, certifies diamonds and colored stones. Established in 1975, IGI is based in Antwerp with offices located in New York City, Hong Kong, Tokyo and Los Angeles. IGI certifies diamonds of 0.15 – 2.25 carats. Major jewelry chains were IGI’s primary clients when it began, but diamonds certified by IGI are now very commonly sold in Europe and the Middle East. A team of gemologists grades stones at IGI, and the whole team must agree on a diamond’s rating. Diamonds with qualities which fall between two grades will generally be given the higher grade.

Diamonds Certified by Different Labs Are Priced Differently

Due to more strict grading standards, diamonds certified by GIA and AGS tend to cost a bit more and demand for these diamonds is higher. Their consistent grading methods offer reliable, accurate certifications buyers can trust. IGI uses less consistent grading scales. This is especially true of their color and clarity evaluations. While IGI diamonds may be less expensive, their grade is not always reliable. GIA and AGS certified diamonds come with accurate reports. These reports provide buyers with information they can use to determine which diamond will suit their needs best.

» Cushion Cut Diamond Pave is Also Known As the Candlelight Diamond and Wait Till You Learn Why
» The Emerald Cut Diamond Engagement Ring - The Diamond of the Rich and Powerful
» The Emerald Cut Diamond Engagement Ring - The Diamond of the Rich and Powerful
» Before we get a diamond ring, the diamond mining process occurs
» Diamond Engagement Rings With Perfect Diamond Shapes