There are many labs that offer a grading service, but one stands out above the rest: The Gemological Institute of America (GIA).
The GIA is the world leader in diamond grading and diamond research. As an independent, non-profit organization, it provides accurate diamond analysis and reliable grading reports. GIA testing methods are famously rigorous, resulting in consistent grading.
Its grading system is intuitive, allowing you to see exactly where your diamond sits in terms of quality.
Table of Content
• A Guide To Certified Diamonds• What Are Certified Diamonds?
• Are Certified Diamonds More Expensive?
• Benefits of Buying a Certified Diamond
• AGS vs GIA
A Guide to GIA Certified Diamonds
Once you have a handle on the basics of diamond carat, clarity, color, and cut, it is time to familiarize yourself with ‘The 5th C’ of buying a diamond; the certificate.
After a diamond has been cut and polished, it can be sent to a lab for analysis and grading. Grading a diamond is an intricate process. In fact, several expert gemologists must all reach the same conclusion before a diamond is issued its final certificate.
What Are Certified Diamonds?
Once you have a handle on the basics of diamond carat, clarity, color and cut, it is time to familiarize yourself with ‘The 5th C’ of buying a diamond; the certificate.
After a diamond has been cut and polished, it can be sent to a lab for analysis and grading. Grading a diamond is an intricate process. In fact, several expert gemologists must all reach the same conclusion before a diamond is issued its final certificate.
Are Certified Diamonds More Expensive?
There is a small cost to have a diamond certified and this cost varies from lab to lab. Across our decades of experience, we have found that some customers believe certified diamonds are more expensive than uncertified. This is not the case. The certification fee is minimal and should not impact the price of the diamond.
The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) commands the highest fee for its diamond grading services. This is due to its exceptional reputation and meticulous testing methods. Lower-tier diamond certificates offer inflated and inaccurate grades. So while a GIA diamond may appear more expensive than a diamond carrying a lesser certificate, the price is a reflection of the exact properties of the diamond.
Benefits of Buying a Certified Diamond
The best diamond grading labs (such as the GIA) are unbiased and therefore offer buyers complete transparency. They also allow customers to:
· Gain a true and accurate understanding of a diamond’s quality and properties
· Make an easier side by side comparison on matters of price and quality
· Assurance that the diamond is real and natural (as opposed to lab-grown)
· Can increase resale value should you choose to sell your diamond
· Provides a value for insurance purposes
AGS vs GIA
The American Gem Society (AGS) is another leading lab in diamond grading. There are parallels between the AGS and GIA and both provide an excellent standard of grading. Due to the international renown of the GIA diamonds and the flawless reputation of the lab, Washington Diamond only sells GIA diamonds.
There are several other labs in the lower tiers of diamond grading and we recommend buyers exercise extreme caution when looking at diamonds carrying these certificates. You can learn more about the issue with lower-tier labs in our diamond buying guide.
Peace of mind, the universal measure of quality, and a commitment to excellence: explore our stunning collection of GIA diamonds and take the first step in your diamond journey today.