Both GIA and AGS are renowned and dependable diamond grading laboratories. GIA displays higher consistency and a more rigorous approach when grading the clarity of SI1/SI2 diamonds, whereas AGS actively enhances its grading methodologies for lower clarity grades. Comparatively, AGS's proportion-based methodology for cut g

Below are our ratings for the best diamond certifications and summarized insights about each lab's shortcomings.The best diamond certification lab for reliable grading is GIA, which is widely regarded as trustworthy and consistent. HRD and GCAL are also considered reliable labs. The International Gemological Institute (IGI) has been impro

The Gemological Institution of America was founded in 1931 as a non-profit institution dedicated to researching, educating, and grading natural gemstones. It developed a standard for everyone in the diamond industry to apply as a unified methodology for grading diamonds and other gemstones. Due to their dedication

Hoge Raad voor Diamant was established in 1976. At the time, it was reputed as one of the world’s most reliable diamond grading laboratories. The primary reason was that their grading reports were always accurate and consistent with those from other famous institutions like the GIA. The company has upheld t

Besides being the only gemological lab with active presence and operations in nearly every continent, the IGI is the oldest gemological laboratory in Antwerp, the world’s biggest diamond center. This feat speaks to the IGI’s experience and reputation as a jewelry grader. The idea behind establishing gemological la

The Gemological Institute of America was established in 1931, almost ten years after Robert M. Shipley conceived the idea. In the early 1920s, Shipley was one of the most successful jewelers in the US. However, he was concerned about the unfortunate state of the industry. At the time, there were no professi

Lee Hwa Jewellery offers customers a pleasant in-store experience with luxurious stores with a modern feel. The sales assistants are friendly and helpful, although the extent differs from store to store. The diamonds sold at Lee Hwa Jewellery stores are lovely, with good cuts, color, and clarity, althoug

The Gem Certification & Assurance Lab (GCAL) was officially founded in 2001 by Donald A. Palmieri and his wife, Pamela, in the heart of New York City’s diamond district.  GCAL was established to address widespread industry challenges, such as inconsistent grading and inflated certifications, with a focus on fairne

The history of the American Gem Society can be traced back to the 1920s, at which time Robert M. Shipley was an influential jewelry merchant. He experienced a very humbling but awakening experience one day. During his heydays as a jewelry seller, Shipley believed he was the best merchant around and thought

Certified diamonds are the real deal when looking for high-quality gems with well-documented credentials. The following are more reasons you should always insist on purchasing certified gems. 1. For Authenticity Purposes Shopping for a certified diamond is the surest way to verify the details of the g

As mentioned, a diamond certificate is only as reliable as the lab that issues it. The GIA is a household name when it comes to the issuance of consistent diamond grading reports. It is a third-party gemological institute. Therefore, all their diamond grading activities are free from bias and undue influence, be i

Through consumer research, GIA has shown that a third of consumers will purchase a diamond from a brand that sources their diamonds based on environmental impact, with consumers being more likely to purchase a diamond with a back story that is fully disclosed. The GIA Diamond Origin Report gives consumers the