In this article, you know the difference between igi vs gia. If you’re buying a diamond, then you probably have two choices in terms of certifications. One is the GIA certification, and the other is the IGI certification. Each one has its advantages and disadvantages, and it’s important to find out which one is right for you.
GIA certifications are more expensive than IGI diamonds
The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) is a well-recognized, independent non-profit organization that is considered the gold standard of diamond grading. It was founded in 1931 as a research and education facility for natural gemstones. Today, GIA has several offices and laboratories around the world, including one in Antwerp, Belgium.
GIA is a leading industry standard for loose solitaire diamonds and polished natural diamonds. In addition to GIA, there are other gemological labs that offer grading reports.
The GIA certification is a great way for first-time buyers to know exactly how the diamond was graded. However, it can also be a powerful tool in driving up the price of the diamond. For instance, a GIA-certified diamond is approximately 15% more expensive than a standard stone.
Another advantage to purchasing GIA-certified diamonds is that they can be easily compared between jewelers. This makes it more convenient to find a perfect diamond.
While GIA is known for its stringent standards for grading diamonds, IGI isn’t as strict. Both GIA and IGI are highly regarded for their work with mined diamonds, as well as lab-grown diamonds.
However, while GIA is generally more accurate when grading natural diamonds, IGI is better suited to grading laboratory diamonds. Because of its looser standards, IGI is less likely to accurately grade lower-quality diamonds.
GIA diamonds are more likely to have visible inclusions
Inclusions are a natural aspect of a diamond. These are microscopic impurities that become present during the formation of the crystals. The presence of inclusions reduces the clarity grade of a diamond.
However, not all inclusions are created equal. Some are naturally occurring while others are a result of the diamond being cut or reshaped.
The most common type of diamond inclusion is the pinpoint. These are tiny black dots that are noticeable on the table of the diamond. They are caused by tiny mineral crystals within the diamond.
Another example is the cloud. This is a clarity inclusion that can give the diamond a hazy appearance. Despite their small size, these are not a major problem.
The twinning wisp is another diamond-specific inclusion. It occurs when the crystal structure of a diamond begins to refract and grow. While it is not as obvious as the cloud, it is a much more valuable inclusion.
Other diamond inclusions include the feather, which is an internal crack. This should not be a concern unless it reaches the surface.
The largest and most important factor to consider when assessing inclusions is the location. No two diamonds will have the same size or location.
Another important feature is the type. While the GIA uses red to indicate internal inclusions, it does not use the same colors to determine the visibility of external blemishes.
GIA certifications are more reputable for lab-grown diamonds
The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) has recently resumed certification of lab-grown diamonds. However, GIA is not the only lab that issues grading reports. Other labs have been a bit more aggressive in their grading methods.
For instance, GIA grades diamonds on their cut, color, and clarity. It also grades them on finish.
IGI is the second most widely recognized lab in the world after GIA. This institute is known for its consistent rating system and has been the choice of most of the diamond industry. Compared to igi vs gia has less strict grading standards.
The AGS is a US based laboratory. They use a 0-10 scale to grade diamonds. Unlike GIA, they do not use an alpha grading system.
EGL, the European grading institute, is another option. They are known for their pioneering grading technique for diamonds under one carat. Their certificates are found all over the world.
The diamond industry has gone through a radical transformation in the past four years. One of the biggest changes has been the introduction of lab grown diamonds. These gem quality white lab grown diamonds are now being sold in the market.
GIA has not been as successful with its grading methods for lab-grown diamonds as other grading bodies have. But GIA does not have the clout to inflate a diamond’s grade.
