Should you buy a certified diamond?
Certified diamonds are diamonds that have been graded by a gem laboratory according to the 4Cs attributes (cut, clarity, carat weight, and color) and verified for quality. The most reliable and trustworthy diamond certificates come from independent gem laboratories like the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) rather than independent diamond retailers who might be biased or lack the expertise required to provide an objective certification. Trusted independent laboratories include the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), the American Gem Society (AGS), the International Gemological Institute (IGI), Gemological Science International and GemEx Systems.
The certification processes used by independent gem laboratories are quite rigorous, requiring high-powered microscopes and other sensitive instruments to properly examine and measure the diamond’s blemishes, inclusions, symmetry, color, and polish. In addition to documenting a diamond’s cut quality, color grade, carat weight, clarity, length, and width, diamond certifications will also note whether a diamond has been enhanced via laser, heat, pressure or other types of methods used for improving color or clarity. All enhancement treatments must be disclosed to the buyer and appear on the diamond certification report.
Three important reasons to buy certified diamonds:
1. Certified diamonds, while more costly than diamonds that haven’t been certified, are a better choice because they hold their value better.
2. Certified diamonds tend to be of a higher quality than non-certified diamonds because retailers choose them for their documented quality.
3. At the end of the day, the certificate gives you security about the origins and quality of your diamond. It is best to design your custom engagement ring with a certified diamond.
Is there a reason to buy a non-certified diamond? Of course! Uncertified diamonds do not have to first be evaluated by an organization like the GIA, and are more competitively priced. They can be appraised and appreciated and worn in any and all jewelry, and can be the right choice for someone who isn’t interested in the origins or having a certificate.
Note that a certificate is not the same as an appraisal, although the certificate might be used in the appraisal. Appraisals do not describe and grade diamonds; they value them according to current market prices. For helpful insights about appraisals, read our article, ‘Busting Common Myths about Jewelry Appraisals’.
