GIA Vs IGI: Which Diamond Certification Is Best?

Introduction

The act of certification when purchasing a diamond is not a piece of paper but it is a promise. GIAs and IGI are frequently contrasted with each other as far as diamond certification authorities are concerned. They both have advantages and disadvantages. We will discuss GIA and IGI in detail and demonstrate how to confirm the authenticity of GIA diamond certificates to be sure that you are not cheated. You will have the best certificate that suits you by the end.

What Is Diamond Certification?

Definition & Purpose

Diamond certification is a paper that is granted by an independent laboratory, and it evaluates the quality of the diamond, the carat, cut, clarity and colour, among other attributes. It makes sure that it is what you are purchasing as promised within the 4Cs and more.

Key Attributes Of Good Certification

Mark And The Consistency Of Grades

• Detail: intelligibility, fluorescence, polish, symmetry, proportions.

• Secure the report number & authenticate the possibility.

• Global acceptance & trust

GIA Vs IGI: Understanding The Differences

Origins & Reputation

• GIA (Gemological Institute of America) is more mature, and it is widely regarded as the standard of diamond certification for natural diamonds. It is characterised by strict grading.

• Late to the game is the IGI (International Gemological Institute) which is powerful in Lab-grown diamond markets. Its reports are also famous, especially in some areas.

Strictness And Standards Of Grading

• GIA is more rigid: its colour, clarity and cut standards are more challenging. The IGI could grade some of its diamonds a bit lower than GIA, as it grades them according to their clarity or colour.

• IGI also provides grades which seem more generous, particularly of lab-grown stones. It can be an advantage to buyers who want a higher visual quality at a lower price, however, it implies that it is significant to compare similar specs across certifications.

Cost & Turnaround Time

• GIA certification is normally more costly and time-consuming to grant.

• IGI is generally cheaper and quicker, especially with the need to be certified in a hurry or when purchasing numerous pieces.

Global & Market Acceptance

• GIA is more popular in most markets, especially in high-value natural diamonds or in resale. It is less likely to lose its resale value and become less universal.

• IGI has been widely favoured in most Asian and European regions, as well as retailers/customers of lab-grown and mid-value natural diamonds/stones.

How To Verify GIA Diamond Certificate's Authenticity

1. Check-up Serial / Report Number.

GIA certificates each have a distinct report number. This number is to be checked in the official database of GIA. The number of the report must be the one that is written on the diamond (where there is one), and the information in the online account must be what is on your certificate.

2. Examining The Details Of The Report

In an analysis of a GIA certificate, one should find an accurate carat weight, clarity, colour, cut, polish, symmetry and fluorescence. There should also be a clarity plot (diagram of inclusions) and proportions. Their absence or ambiguity is a red flag in case any of them is missing.

3. Marking Or Inscription By Laser

Most of the diamonds that are certified by GIA bear the report number laser-engraved on the girdle of the diamond. Make sure that the writing on the certificate is the same. When you have no inscription on your stone whom you think ought to have an inscription, see why.

4. Investigate The Chain Of Custody/ Source

Reliance on a GIA certificate implies reliance on the fact that the diamond was treated properly as well. Ensure that the seller provides all the information about the time it was graded and the place of origin, whether it is lab-grown or natural as well as the specific conditions and treatments (or none) that it has received.

Comparing GIA Vs IGI: Pros & Cons

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We do not think of jewellery at JCS Jewellers as something to do with ornamentation, we think it is more storytelling. Our jewellery is brought together with a design that includes the purpose in each and every collection of our gold, platinum and diamond jewellery. Each work has a purpose: to commemorate an occasion, a festivity, or to capture a day-to-day scenario. Our jewellery is not haphazard but carefully planned, and every gem that we offer is chosen with the aim that you not just wear it in order to be beautiful, but as a statement of good quality as well.

Conclusion

In the GIA vs IGI, there is no universal answer. When credibility (maximum), resale and the strictness of grading are of significance to you, GIA usually comes out on top. IGI may be a good choice in case you need affordability, quick processing, and great value, particularly with lab-grown diamonds. The real thing is to learn to check the authenticity of GIA diamond certificates, inspect the 4Cs and buy depending on what is most important to you: prestige, beauty or budget. Your diamond must create happiness and confidence--in the brilliancy, and in the certificate.

FAQs On How To Verify GIA Diamond Certificate Authenticity

1. Why are IGI certificates preferred by certain jewellers? 

Diamonds are easier to sell in retail settings since IGI is quicker, less expensive, and frequently grades better.

2. Does IGI imply that a diamond is inferior to a GIA-certified one?

Not necessarily. IGI diamonds have a beautiful appearance and high value. It is important to know that IGI grades can be more favourable, and thus the similarity of stones can be compared. 

3. What distinguishes IGI certifications from GIA certifications?

GIA certification is more expensive and time-consuming due to its rigidity and reputation. IGI is more likely to be cost-effective and fast.

4. Is IGI resaleable or insurable?

Yes, IGI is popular in a great number of places. However, when it is a very high-value natural diamond or an auction, the GIA certificate may tend to have better trust and better conditions. 

5. How To Verify a GIA Diamond Certificate's Authenticity?

Enter the GIA report number into the GIA database, screen any laser inscription in the diamond and cross-check the measurements and characteristics of the stone against those listed in the certificate. Check such information as clarity plot, cut proportions, polish and symmetry.