What does a GIA certified diamond mean?
It means an independent, third-party lab, the Gemological Institute of America, has examined and graded the diamond's color, clarity, cut, and carat weight, and issued a report you can verify online.
How do I verify a diamond's certification report?
Every GIA and IGI report includes a unique report number. You can enter that number directly on GIA.edu or IGI.org to confirm the report matches the stone and hasn't been altered.
What's the difference between diamond certification labs?
GIA is known for the strictest, most conservative grading standard in the industry. IGI is faster and widely used for both natural and lab-grown diamonds. Both are internationally recognized and independently verifiable.
Is there a cost difference between certified and uncertified diamonds?
Yes, certified diamonds typically cost more than uncertified stones of similar apparent quality, because you're paying for an independent guarantee of exactly what you're getting. Most jewelers, including Joseph's, recommend certification for any diamond purchase over a small carat weight.
Are IGI certified diamonds real and legitimate?
Yes. IGI is one of the world's largest and most established independent gem certification labs, and its reports are recognized and accepted throughout the jewelry industry.