Article Highlights
- A diamond report is a graded report based on 4 different factors that determine the diamond's value.
- IGI and GIA reports are grading reports issued to a diamond.
- Diamond reports can be useful before, during, and after the diamond is bought.
Just like the people that wear them, no two diamonds are the same. Each diamond can differ from the next in a myriad of ways. How they differ from the next is determined by the four C’s which consist of Cut, Color, Clarity, and Carat Weight. These factors added up determine the value of the diamond, but who makes that call?
What are IGI and GIA
The International Gemological Institute (IGI) and The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) are who the gem and jewelry industry rely on for trustworthy diamond and gemstone reports. IGI and GIA are two separate institutes that use the same factors and technique to grade diamonds. Each institute employs certified gemologists to maticulously grade diamonds.
What are Diamond Reports?
A diamond will receive a report after it is sent off to IGI or GIA. A diamond will be sent in to either institute where it will then be thoroughly inspected by teams of gemologists when it will then be graded and given a diamond report. The diamond will be given an inscription of a number correlating it to the report. The report will contain how the diamond scored in each category of the four C’s.
IGI VS GIA
Is there any difference between the two institutes? Yes and no. As stated earlier, each diamond will be graded for the same aspects no matter which institute you use. However, IGI is known to be more lenient on the color grading. Another difference between the two is that lab grown diamonds will be given only a digital diamond report at GIA.
What Does a Diamond Report Mean to a Customer?
Now this is where you come in. You are planning to buy a diamond ring and each diamond option has a report. You understand how knowing the diamonds value is important for selling, but how is it helpful to a customer? After buying a diamond, lots of people find themselves seeking out appraisals. Having a diamond report will help for a more accurate appraisal, which you can use to insure your jewelry. Remember how I said when diamonds are graded, they get an inscription? In the unfortunate event of theft, the inscription on the diamond can be matched to the report, proving ownership of the piece.
Another plus to having a diamond report is for investments. As the saying goes, “diamonds are forever”. Even if the diamond market fluctuates, the grading on your report is concrete. And for a bonus reason, getting a diamond graded isn't cheap. So, it's convenient to have the report come along with the diamond instead of adding one more thing on your to do list.
In conclusion, diamond reports are very valuable to both the customer and the vendor. However, not all diamonds come with a diamond report, so its convenient to buy a diamond that comes with one. Having one can help the customer in case of theft or insuring, and vendors can accurately price and market the stone before selling it.
If you have any questions or need help picking out your next piece of jewelry, remember that the Lola Ade team is only an email away!