Understanding IGI Lab Diamond Certification
Founded in 1975, the International Gemological Institute (IGI) now boasts numerous global headquarters. This independent lab thoroughly examines colored stones, jewelry, and lab-grown diamonds to affirm their authenticity. Following this evaluation, experts provide an IGI lab-grown diamond report detailing the findings. Retailers can then present the IGI certificate alongside the diamond, reassuring buyers of the gem’s authenticity.
IGI Diamond Evaluation Criteria
A specialized team of gemologists at IGI employs scientific methods to assess each diamond’s quality. The four C’s—carat, color, clarity, and cut—form the basis of these evaluations:
Carat
Diamonds are weighed in carats, directly impacting their value. Lab-grown diamonds, though formed differently from natural ones, are still measured on the same carat scale. The shape and cutting methods being identical, the carat weight remains crucial in determining size and value for both types.
Color
The color of diamonds ranges from D (colorless) to Z (yellowish hue), and their fluorescence is also considered (ranging from “none” to “strong”). Although lab-grown diamonds are influenced differently by their creation environment, the color grading remains consistent, affected by the seed quality and additional elements introduced during growth.
Clarity
Using x10 magnification, gemologists examine the diamond’s clarity, with a scale from “I” (included) indicating visible flaws, to “FL” (flawless), showing no visible flaws even under magnification. Both natural and lab-grown diamonds develop inclusions in similar ways.
Cut
The cut of a diamond assesses its polish (smoothness), symmetry (cutting precision), and proportions (various measurements). Ratings range from “poor” to “excellent.” This factor is pivotal as it determines how well the diamond rough, grown in the lab, is transformed into a dazzling gem.
Details in IGI Grading Reports
IGI grading reports provide crucial information about the diamond. Here’s a quick breakdown of what you’ll find in reports for IGI-certified lab-grown diamonds:
Description
A brief description of the diamond’s material and origin. All lab diamonds from Artful Bracelets are IGI certified.
Shape and Cut
Information on the diamond’s shape and faceting style, from round to fancy shapes. Details include symmetry (cutting precision) and various proportions (depth, table, crown height, pavilion depth, girdle, and culet).
Measurements
Carat Weight
Carat (ct) indicates the diamond’s weight, significantly affecting its price. Lab-grown diamonds often offer higher carat weights at lower costs compared to natural diamonds.
Color Grade
Diamond color grade assesses the presence or lack of color, from D (colorless) to Z (yellow hue). Despite environmental differences in creation, lab diamonds are graded similarly, influenced by seed quality and other elements introduced during growth.
Clarity Grade
Clarity evaluates the size, number, and location of internal characteristics. Experts use x10 magnification to inspect flaws, which can range from visible (I) to flawless (FL), similar to natural diamonds.
Cut Grade
The cut grade considers polish, symmetry, and proportions. Rated from “poor” to “excellent,” the cut grade measures how well the diamond rough is transformed into a brilliantly sparkling diamond.
Proportions
Table
Measures the largest facet of the diamond, represented as a percentage of the average minimum and maximum diameters in IGI certification.
Crown Height
The crown height is measured above the diamond’s girdle and shown as a percentage. The crown angle is displayed in degrees, indicating the degree between the bezel facets and the girdle plane.
Pavilion Depth
Pavilion depth is the percentage average of the diamond’s pavilion, which is the section below the girdle. The pavilion angle degree measures the angle between the girdle and the pavilion’s main facet.
Girdle
The girdle thickness separates the pavilion and the crown, described from “extremely thin” to “extremely thick.”
Culet
The culet refers to the bottom tip of a full-cut diamond, typically pointed. Its size can range from “none” to “extremely large.” Ideally, a culet should be “none” and requires gentle handling during setting. Conversely, an “extremely large” culet can detract from a diamond’s visual appeal.
Finish:
Polish
The polish grade of a diamond is determined by the smoothness of its facets. A high polish grade is preferable, as smoother facets allow light to travel through the diamond more easily and reflect more light, enhancing its sparkle.
Symmetry
Symmetry grading assesses the precision of a diamond’s cut. Superior symmetry is essential for optimal light reflection and refraction.
Fluorescence
Fluorescence is evaluated based on a diamond’s reaction to long-wave ultraviolet light. It is also a factor in diamond color grading, as diamonds can emit a soft glow under UV light. Fluorescence is graded on a scale from none to strong.
The Importance of IGI Certification
Browsing through an IGI lab-grown diamonds forum or other diamond discussion platforms, you might encounter debates comparing IGI lab-grown diamonds to GIA natural diamonds. In reality, the differences are minimal; both types of diamonds reflect light beautifully.
When investing in diamonds, it’s crucial to ensure you’re getting the best value for your money. Reputable sellers provide certificates for their diamonds, so always check the certification report before making a purchase. Non-certified diamonds haven’t undergone testing, making it difficult to verify their authenticity unless you are an expert.
Ultimately, purchasing diamonds requires confidence in their authenticity. Some buyers opt for IGI lab-grown diamonds for reasons related to finances, ethics, or the environment. Work with a trusted, vetted jeweler who can offer both a great shopping experience and an IGI certificate to guarantee diamond quality.
