Certification
Solitaire diamonds are classified IGI diamonds. Solitaire deals with certified/graded diamonds from the most respected lab: IGI, GIA, GCAL.
IGI are very reliable independent diamond grading laboratory. They employ leading gemologists and use the highest technologies to grade diamonds. They set industry standards and are well respected.
About IGI Diamond Certification
Established in 1975, the International Gemological Institute (IGI) is the largest independent gemological laboratory in the world, operating 18 laboratory locations.
Brief History of IGI
The IGI's aim is to provide accurate, reliable expertise through education programs and diamond certification.
IGI Diamond Grading Standards
Each diamond is scientifically analyzed by several gemologists, who combine their experience with state-of-the-art equipment to produce a precise description of the components of the diamond and the quality of its cut.
- Diamond Carat
A diamond's carat weight and measurements are taken using carefully by calibrated instruments.
- Diamond Color
The color of a diamond is based on a scale from D (colorless) to Z (yellow) by comparing it to master stones of pre-established color. The amount of fluorescence is noted on a scale from None to Strong.
- Diamond Clarity
A diamond's clarity is measured by an expert gemologist using a special scope and a 10x magnification loupe. It is determined on a scale ranging from internally flawless to imperfect or heavily included. The stone's characteristics are available on a diamond diagram.
- Finish
A diamond's finish includes such elements as polish, symmetry, and proportions. Assigned a grade from Excellent to Poor, polish and symmetry are defined based on the quality of the polish and the precision of the cutting details. Proportions are decided based on the execution of the cutter's design, rating factors such as table diameter, crown height, pavilion depth, girdle thickness, and culet size, and is assigned a grade from Excellent to Poor.
IGI Diamond Report
The IGI Diamond Report give an accurate detailed of a diamond's color, carat weight, clarity, polish and carat weight according to strict international standards.
IGI Diamond ID
The IGI Diamond ID is a diamond evaluation card that includes the same detailed information as the Diamond Report. It contains security features and a Data Matrix, that once scanned and allow users to connect directly to IGI's data system and confirm its authenticity.
About GIA Diamond Certification
GIA is the most established certification company in the world. They have been around since 1931 and are the foremost authority on diamonds, gems and pearls. They are a non-profit organization that sets the standards for jewels and identification world-wide.
GIA (The Gemological Institute of America) is an independent outside source that grades stones by expert Diamontologists and Gemologists, that evaluate the stones for cut, color, clarity, carat weight, and more, to identify and classify that particular stone.
Every diamond of more than one carat comes with a Diamond Grading Report that offers a record of its weight, grade, proportions and the most important diamond inclusions and blemishes. The nature, position, size, quantity and relief of clarity characteristics are also considered. GIA Diamond Grading Report features a diamond report number and certificate laser barcode, providing effective and complete identification of each diamon
About GCAL Diamond Certification
GCAL was established in 2001 with the goal of providing an independent, honest and fair assessment of the quality of diamonds and is the only diamond lab in the world to earn the prestigious ISO 17025 Forensic Accreditation that assures customers they are grading consistently and accurately.
A GCAL diamond is a diamond that has been certified by the Gem Certification & Assurance Lab (GCAL). A GCAL certification provides peace of mind with a guarantee that your diamond is accurately evaluated and graded in terms of cut, color, clarity, and weight.