WHAT IS A DIAMOND CERTIFICATE?
The jeweller is not the one grading the diamond. There are standard grading reports done by many agencies around the world. Some are more reliable than others. GIA (Gemological Institute of America) is currently the most reliable agency. It’s important to have a jeweller you can trust that will help you review the grade of a diamond and inspect it under 10x magnification with you. Often times small differences in a subjective assessment by a grader can make differences in the price by 5-20%. So it’s critical that you don’t simply accept the grade. I can help navigate you through all of this so that you know exactly what you’re investing. For instance, a diamond may be graded as an SI2 but under further inspection, it could easily be debated to be an SI1.
A diamond certificate is also referred to as a diamond quality document or a diamond grading report. Therefore, before purchasing a diamond, expect to see a copy of its certificate, as proof that it underwent a professional examination and grading.
In my previous guides I mentioned that prior to the middle of twentieth century, there was no standard for assessing diamond quality. Then came the globally accepted standard for describing diamond quality, abbreviated 4 Cs – which stands for: colour, clarity, cut and carat.
- Diamond colour determines the whiteness or lack of colour of the diamond.
- Diamond clarity determines the level of “perfection” of the diamond.
- Diamond cut describes how well the diamond has been cut. Cut greatly affects the diamond’s brilliance and sparkle.
- Diamond carat measures a diamond’s weight.
The carat weight, colour and clarity are all validated, together with the diamond’s exact measurements. Afterwards, a diamond certificate is issued following this unbiased and professional examination to authenticate the diamond’s attributes.
WHO IS ISSUING THE CERTIFICATES?
The most respected laboratory in the diamond industry, is the Gemological Institute of America (GIA). They are known for their unbiased diamond grading systems and consistent quality. Diamonds with their grading reports are thought to be the most valued in the industry.
Furthermore, GIA is the largest, most respected nonprofit source of gemological knowledge in the world. It’s committed to protect diamond buyers by creating and following the 4 Cs standard and the International Diamond Grading System. These methods are the universal benchmarks by which all diamonds are judged. Learn more about GIA certification in this informative video below.
