DIAMOND CERTIFICATION
Perhaps the 5th ‘C’ when purchasing a diamond is the CERTIFICATE or diamond report. This important document validates the diamond's characteristics. A diamond certificate from a ‘no name’ laboratory or jewellery shop is not worth the paper it’s written on, insist on quality grading documents. The world's foremost diamond report and the leaders in diamond research are the inventors of the ‘4C’s ’; the GIA (Gemological Institute of America). There are other laboratories that also use the GIA methods and/or have a very good reputation they are:

GIA-(Gemological Institute of America) - http://www.gia.edu/ AGS (American Gemological Society) - http://www.ags.org/ HRD (Antwerp World Diamond Centre)- http://www.hrd.be/ IGI (International Gemological Institute)- http://www.igiworldwide.com/ EGL (European Gemological Laboratory)- http://www.eglusa.com/

The above diamond grading laboratories are the largest and most well known of the international gemological centers. There are subtle differences in grading techniques but the overall consensus is usually very close between these institutions. Any other diamond report may warrant further analysis of the laboratories processes and ability to grade in a consistent and unbiased manner that represents a true and fair diamond report. Because the diamond certificate reports the characteristics we have discussed above its vital and imperative it comes from a reputable source. A diamond valuation or appraisal is significantly different from a diamond report or certificate and should not be confused.

ALWAYS insist on a diamond certificate from a major laboratory!

Remember that when buying a diamond there are many characteristics that need to be balanced and reviewed in order to buy quality within your budget.

More Information
GENERAL DIAMOND BUYING GUIDE
THE 4 C's
CARAT
CUT
COLOUR
CLARITY

THE 5th C
CERTIFICATION

AND MORE..............
FLUORESCENCE
HEARTS AND ARROWS
DIAMONDS IN HISTORY
DTC BEST DIAMOND PRACTICES
CONFLICT DIAMONDS
KIMBERLY PROCESS