Even with its prominence, IGI certifications may still be off by two or three grades. It is also acknowledged in the United States but not as popular as the US-based diamond laboratories.Īpart from grading natural stones, IGI also grades lab-grown diamonds on a commercial scale. Just as the EGL, this is a for-profit organization and is a household name in Europe. IGI means the International Gemological Institute. EGL is also an active for-profit organization creating possible loopholes to inconsistent certifications. In my opinion, both the GIA and AGS are better certification labs- several of EGL’s certifications have loose grading standards. EGL is also the first company known to mention SI3 clarity rating in their certificates but has faced several lawsuits for over grading diamonds. The company is popular in grading stones that weigh less than a carat. On the other hand, EGL has a huge global presence with offices in Paris, Tel Aviv, Johannesburg, among others. The latter was recently banned in the United States. EGL has two main factions: EGL USA and EGL International. Though not as popular as the American counterparts, EGL or European Gemological Laboratory has been grading diamonds mostly in Europe. Based in Carlsbad, California, GIA has branches in many cities across the world having an excess of 1000+ certified diamond graders, scientists, and educators. It is one of the most extensively used laboratories for diamond certification. The Gemological Institute Of America is considered the standard-bearer of all gemological laboratories in the world. Differences Between AGS, IGI, EGL, and GIA Certification Labs? Gemological Institute Of America (GIA) EGL and IGI may not be as popular in the United States, but are well-known agencies that could be used as a form of solid proof (but not guarantee) that your diamond’s properties are matching up. GIA is based in the United States and well-known as the industry-standard form of grading. International Gemological Institute (IGI)ĪGS is distinguished for its detailed scientific research into diamond color grades and sometimes considered superior to GIA.
What Are The Most Reputable Certification Labs Around The World?Ī few well-known grading systems in Europe and United States have remarkable reputations: In fact, treatments such as clarity treatments can be useful if you wish to buy bigger diamonds at reduced prices. Not to say that enhancing a diamond is totally unethical, it is just important as a buyer to be informed of the treatments that took place. Treatments are done when a diamond has an excessive yellowish tint, fractures, and inclusions.
Read Also: Why is a diamond's cut important?Ī lack of certificate may also indicate that the diamond has been treated and the seller knows an inspection would show the diamond’s true condition. The 4Cs are so important in the evaluation of stones that without certification from reputable agencies (GIA, AGS, EGL, or IGI), you are sure to receive a diamond with two or more grades below mentioned values. Buying a non-certified stone means, you are fully depending on the buyer’s integrity in terms of the stone’s color, clarity, cut, and carat weight. Certification of diamonds is necessary, as it’s easy to sell uninformed buyers non-certified stones with exaggerated properties. Why Is Buying A Certified Diamond Recommended?Ī diamond certification is done by a third-party, who is neither the buyer nor the seller.
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