Diamond Certificate

A diamond certificate can be defined as a statement, issued by an independent Gemological Laboratory, that at the time of evaluation, the Diamond in question has been examined by experienced Diamond Graders, using various gemological instruments, and determined to contain the characteristics as stated in the Certificate.

A diamond certificate will contain a complete quality description of the diamond and will include information on shape, weight, clarity, fluorescence, colour grade, measurements, proportions and finish grade. It will also confirm to that the stone is indeed the genuine article.

A certificate enables you to buy your diamond with confidence. A diamond certificate, however, is only useful if it is reliable and has been issued by a reputable independant laboratory which has no financial interest in the stone.

While discussing the various elements or properties contained in the certificate, it is important to state which gemological instruments were used to evaluate the specific diamonds under discussion. Evaluation of a diamond is important because minute, microscopic inclusions, of a Diamond can have a major influence on the price.

If you've never heard of the institution that is offering a grading report, don't hesitate to ask about its credentials.

Don't, however, expect the grades from an unknown laboratory to be the same as a GIA or an HRD report. Not all laboratories are as strict. In fact, some laboratories are popular with certain retailers because they have a reputation of being generous with grades.

One important thing to remember is that a grading report does not include an appraisal, or any kind of statement about the monetary value of the diamond.

A Diamond Certificate, from a recognized Gem Trade Laboratory, is a unique fingerprint of a diamond. It not only identifies the diamond but also provides important information which helps both consumers and jewellers alike.

GIA is the name to be considered when it comes to certification. The IGI or the International Gemological Institute is another certifying body .IGI is acclaimed to be the world's largest independent laboratory for testing and grading gemstones and fine jewelry.

The three largest, and most reputable independant laboratories worldwide are:

• H.R.D (Hoge Raad voor Diamant) diamond certification lab.
• G.I.A (Gemmological Institute of America) diamond certification lab.
• I.G.I (International Gemmological Institute) diamond certification lab.

Difference between a Diamond certificate and an appraisal

A Diamond Certificate is a document issued by a Gemological Laboratory describing a Loose Diamond. The laboratory will not issue certificates on Diamonds which are set in a mounting. A Diamond Certificate issues a "grade" indicating the physical properties of the Diamond "at the time of evaluation". Furthermore a certificate is a document which retains its value over a long period of time, assuming the Diamond does not chip or is not otherwise altered.

Appraisals are often used for insurance purposes. An appraisal indicates the dollar value of the piece under consideration. Appraisals are often over-estimated, and are therefore a very poor estimation of price.