If you’ve spent any time looking into diamonds, you’ve likely come upon the term “GIA Certification.” Doing research is important when you are planning to buy a diamond, but it’s understandable that there are a lot of different terms, figures and numbers listed with diamonds, so it’s possible to get confused or feel overwhelmed by the entire process.
The good news is that GIA Certification is actually designed to make the diamond buying process easier and more transparent. When you’re looking at diamonds, check that a diamond has been certified by the GIA or another reputable organization. This will give you important details about the diamond that will help you make an informed purchase.
So what is GIA Certification Anyway?
GIA refers to the Gemological Institute of America, a non-profit organization that is dedicated to research and education in jewelry arts and gemology. The institute was founded in 1931 with the goal of setting and maintaining evaluation standards in gemstone quality in order to inform and protect all buyers and sellers.
In the early 1950s, the GIA created The 4Cs of diamond quality (Cut, Clarity, Color and Carat Weight). This standard made it much more straightforward to grade diamonds and determine their quality. It has since become an international standard of grading diamonds.
The GIA Laboratory provides several of gem grading and identification reports, all designed to make it easier to qualify and compare diamonds.
Almost all jewelers sell some GIA certified diamonds and very reputable jewelers will primarily sell GIA certified diamonds. At Damasci, we source our loose, GIA certified diamonds from the world’s top cutting houses.
Diamond Certification
A GIA diamond grading report includes a great deal of information, including:
- The date the diamond was examined
- A unique tracking number that is assigned to each diamond and report
- The shape of the diamond (round, square cut, etc.)
- The carat weight
- The polish grade
- The clarity grade
- The color grade
- The cut grade
- A diamond plot that details any and all inclusions or blemishes found in the diamond
- The measurements of the diamond
- Security features that confirm the authenticity of the report
- And much more
While the GIA is the most common and generally most reliable diamond grading institute, there are others as well, including the American Gem Society (AGS) and the International Gemological Institute (IGI). Both of these organizations are also highly respected. Buying a diamond that has been certified by a reputable organization gives you incredible peace of mind regarding the precise value and quality of your diamond.
A jeweler should have no problem showing you a diamond certificate when asked. An independent GIA, IGI, or AGS laboratory report accompanies all Damasci loose diamonds and diamond engagement ring purchases. This gives you confidence in the stone(s) that you have purchased and lets you know that you are receiving the exact diamond(s) that you ordered.
In the sometimes complex world of diamonds, it is important that you receive certified details about the diamonds that you purchase.
Choosing a Diamond
GIA certification and other certification reports are designed to make it easier to determine the quality of a diamond and to compare it against other diamonds. These reports are very important, especially for those who are purchasing engagement rings. There are several reasons why this is the case.
One is because engagement rings typically feature larger diamonds or more prominent diamonds than other types of diamond jewelry. Since diamonds are a major part of the piece, it makes sense that you will want to pay special attention and verify the quality of the stones.
Another reason is a more practical one. Many people who purchase engagement rings do not have much experience in buying diamond jewelry. This situation can lead to stress, anxiety and confusion. Certification reports are designed to alleviate such confusion and make it easier to determine a quality diamond.
If you have any questions about GIA certification, the 4 Cs or any other diamond quality aspects, please read our FAQ or contact us today. A reputable jeweler should have no issue discussing diamond quality with you and answering whatever questions you may have. The more information that you have about the diamonds that you’re considering, the easier it will be for you to make a decision.
