Diamond, with its spectacular sparkle and exceptional durability, is the ultimate symbol of luxury and wealth. Whether set in rings, earrings or pendants, this gemstone never fails to impress.
When buying diamonds, there are certain factors you need to consider. These include the 4Cs of diamonds, i.e., color, clarity, cut and carat weight. Ideally you should opt for diamond jewelry that comes with certification outlining these crucial details so you know exactly what you’re getting.
Today, the process of shopping diamonds has become easier with industry-recognized certificates from institutes such as the GIA or the Gemological Institute of America and IGI or the International Gemological Institute. Both these organizations run independent grading labs that evaluate the quality of loose diamonds and provide detailed reports on their most remarkable aspects.
In this guide, we’ll dive deep into the differences between GIA and IGI certifications, explaining how each organization grades diamonds and what it means for your purchase.
Getting Diamonds Certified
Now, we all know that diamonds are mined from the earth or created in a lab setting, but how do they get graded before being transformed into jewelry pieces? That’s where gemstone grading labs such as GIA and IGI come in. Reputed jewelers send their loose diamonds (both natural and lab-grown) to these labs so that they can be graded and categorized. This not only helps you make an informed decision but also creates greater transparency.
What is GIA?
GIA or the Gemological Institute of America, established in 1931, is a landmark institution that created the universal 4Cs system for diamond grading. Based in California, their laboratory provides detailed reports for natural and lab-grown diamonds as well as colored gemstones and pearls.
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How GIA Grades Diamonds
All of the diamonds and gemstones that are graded by GIA undergo rigorous testing and examination by their trained experts at independent labs. Once the diamond arrives at the lab for grading, it is assigned a unique identification number. This is done to keep the sender anonymous and ensure objective and fair grading results. Next, the diamond is carefully examined from every angle. Its proportions, facets and angles are measured and the diamond is also weighed electronically to accurately determine its carat weight.
Then, additional inspection is carried out to determine whether the diamond is natural or lab-grown. During this phase, diamonds are also assessed for color grading and any treatments they may have received. Following this, 10x magnification is used to check the clarity and finish. This is also when the cut of the diamond, its clarity and proportions are mapped out. Once the analysis is complete, the 4Cs of the diamond and any additional qualities are assimilated and mentioned in the report.
What is IGI?
IGI or the International Gemological Institute, founded in 1975, is based in Antwerp, Belgium. The IGI provides objective grading and assessment for diamonds, gemstone, lab-grown diamonds and finished jewelry pieces. This includes lab-grown diamond jewelry as well.
If you’re looking at adding IGI-certified lab-grown diamonds to your collection, don’t forget to check out the collection at Angara.
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Note: All diamonds over 1 carat are IGI-certified at Angara.
How IGI Grades Diamonds
IGI assesses diamonds in controlled laboratory settings. The process starts with an initial screening to ascertain whether the diamond is natural or lab-grown. During this phase, the diamond is also checked for any permanent treatments it may have received.
Next, the diamond is checked by experts for its cut, color, clarity and carat weight. This information is then compiled in an IGI report, along with any inclusions spotted. The final report is available electronically and can be easily traced back to IGI labs.
The key advantage of IGI is that it offers additional traceability and security for graded diamonds.
Now that we know how these two institutes grade their diamonds, let’s take a look at the key differences between the two.
IGI vs. GIA Certification
Before we dive into the differences, let’s take a look at the similarities in their grading process. Both organizations offer detailed reports on the 4Cs of diamonds and also note additional features for both natural and lab-grown diamonds. Plus, both IGI and GIA also offer unique identification numbers for the gemstones with small inscriptions. Their reports also feature graphics to highlight the diamond’s qualities and can be easily traced on their website.
At the same time, the two also have their own labs and proprietary techniques for grading diamonds and other gemstones. Now that we have assessed their similarities, let’s check out the difference between IGI vs. GIA certification.
| IGI | GIA |
|---|---|
| Grades both natural and lab-grown loose gemstones and diamond jewelry pieces. | Focuses on loose gemstones only. |
| Offers different report options and has incredibly high standards for each. | Stands out as it standardized diamond grading with the 4Cs protocol and also uses the latest technology for enhanced precision. |
| IGI certified diamonds are renowned for their accurate grading and are also quite popular. The reports also contain details of the jewelry’s construction in case of completed jewelry pieces. | Using anonymous identification numbers ensures truly objective grading and the enhanced transparency during the review process makes GIA graded diamonds the most trustworthy in the industry. |
| When it comes to the 4Cs, the IGI report focuses more on the cut of the diamonds. | The GIA report places more emphasis on the diamond color and clarity. |
| Generally, IGI certification costs less than GIA. | GIA charges slightly more in most cases for diamond grading. |
IGI or GIA-Certified Diamonds: The Final Verdict
Both GIA and IGI are reliable institutes for diamond grading and certification. GIA is the benchmark in the industry and so GIA-certified diamonds are recognized and accepted all over the world. On the other hand, IGI-certified diamonds are also highly respected. However, though IGI certifications are recognized worldwide, they may not carry the same universal prestige as GIA certifications.
