Certified Diamonds - A Brief Guide

Certified diamonds are polished diamonds that have been graded unmounted within one of several gemological laboratories. These diamonds have been looked at by a qualified specialist to determine a range of factors, each one specific to that particular diamond. These details include such information as the weight, dimensions, colour and purity of the diamond. The diamond shape, the proportions, the finish, the cut, and the presence of fluorescence are amongst these details.

It is possible to have any size of diamond certified, but it becomes less cost effective to have smaller diamonds under quarter of a carat certified. Here the cost of the certificate would be a larger proportion of the diamond cost. It is very important to purchase your diamond from a reputable source and know a little about the details that appear on the certificate. The cut of diamond for example. This can range enormously. A diamond that has a fair cut grade will be less expensive than a diamond that has a very good cut grade. If you want a diamond that has excellent proportions and finish and is generally a very high colour and clarity of diamond, expect to pay a premium for being a better diamond. On the other hand, a greater discount will be offered on diamonds that do not read so well on the certificate.

There are many laboratories worldwide, but some are more recognised than others. Here are a few, all abbreviated generally.

GIA – Gemological Institute of America
IGI – International Gemological Institute
HRD – Hoge Raad Vor Diamant
AGS – American Gem Society
EGL – European Gemological Laboratory

The certificates themselves are generally folding reports that open out to near A4 size. Smaller passport sized reports are also very popular, providing a cost effective summary of information relating to the diamond.

So should you ask for a diamond with a certificate when purchasing a diamond ring? Certified diamonds provide reassurance to the consumer so that they have in black and white, from an independent source, an accurate record of what they have been sold. They also offer a point of reference in case of loss in the future. They are basically a blue print of your stone. It goes without saying that the diamond report, or certificate should be kept in a safe place in case of loss or theft.

In terms of prices, some of the best available deals on certified diamonds are to be found online. Provided the retailer is reputable and you are purchasing an Internationally recognised laboratory certificate, you should be able to find a suitable diamond at a good price that will tie in with your budget. Consider also having your ring made by the same company. Certain diamond sizes and shapes suit particular ring styles. Never be afraid to ask for advice and possible designs from the jeweller. Online jewellers can provide images by email and respond to enquiries out of hours and allow you to browse at times that are convenient to your lifestyle. With the wealth of information that is available, it should be possible to find all the information you need on certified diamonds.