1) What is a Certified Diamond?

A diamond which comes with a diamond grading report (in general communication it is called 'certificate') guaranteed by an accredited gem lab. This report assures the customer that the diamond is independently recognized as possessing all the qualities specified by that report.

2) Who Issues Certificates?

This evaluation can be performed by anyone with the appropriate training and lab equipment, but it is most trustworthy and most useful when it is issued by an accredited independent lab that is not involved in the sale or purchase of the diamond.

3) Why is certification important?

A certification is an assurance of quality. A diamond certification is a detailed quality report issued by an accredited independent gemological laboratory. The most recognized gemological laboratories that provide certified diamond quality reports to the diamond and jewelry industry are listed below.

G.I.A. - Gemological Institute of America
E.G.L. - European Gemological Laboratory
A.G.S. - American Gem Society
I.G.I. - International Gemological Institute.

4) Is a certificate the same thing as an appraisal?

No. A certificate is not the same thing as an appraisal. A certificate describes the quality of a diamond, but it does not place a monetary value on the gem.

5) Do you provide gemological certificates for your products?

Yes we do provide gemological certificates for most of our products.

6) What is the importance of a certificate?

A certificate assures all customers of a diamond's value and quality. The report gives a detailed enlisting of the key characteristics of each diamond which includes the 4C's and makes it almost impossible to falsify. The certificate marks the credibility of the stone under consideration.

7) What do I look for in the quality of a diamond?

While making a diamond purchase, you need to keep in mind the 4C's- cut, color, clarity and carat- which are the key characteristics in a diamond. Generally the best quality diamonds are those with maximum brilliance which is determined by the cut of the diamond and no tinge of yellow in case of the regular colorless diamonds. The carat, that is the weight of the diamond, is most often a matter of personal tastes. For more details, please click on Diamond Education tab above.

8) Which of the 4C's is the most important?

The first 4C's (carat, cut, color, clarity) are what determine the value and cost of a diamond. The thing to keep in mind is that everyone has a budget when buying a diamond. Quality must always be leveraged against quantity to keep your budget in line. It is not always easy to find a balance, but by understanding and paying attention to the things that establish price it will make it easier.