Beyond the 4Cs: Diamond Certification

A diamond certificate, also called a diamond grading report, provides documented proof that the stone has undergone professional examination by independent gemologists, unconnected with either the seller or the buyer.

 A certificate includes a summary of the diamond’s dimensions, clarity, cut grade (in case of round diamonds), polish, and symmetry as well as other characteristics. The examination process allows gemologists to detect the presence of artificial treatments in color or clarity. It also serves as a security check to differentiate between natural diamonds and synthetic diamonds, and attest to the authenticity of the diamond.

 There are several reputable grading agencies around the world, particularly in the United States and Europe. These include the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), American Gemological Society (AGS), European Gemological Laboratory (EGL), Diamond High Council (HRD), International Gemological Institute (IGI) and International Confederation of Jewelry, Silverware, Diamonds, Pearls, and Stones (CIBJO).

 It is important to remember that different agencies use different color and clarity grading systems. Grading is subjective, and no uniform international standard is used. Therefore, there is no uniform definition to what a “G” color means or “SI1” clarity looks like. 

 That being said, US-based GIA, which was established in 1931 and today employs more than a thousand scientists and gemologists, is considered to be the most widely used and trusted agency in the grading business. The diamonds sold by Y.L Golan Diamonds have been certified by the GIA.