A diamond certificate is considered to be the fifth C of a stone. If you are wondering how to get your diamond certified, here is a quick guide for you to answer the most popular questions and begin the certification process.
What is a Diamond Certificate?
A diamond certificate (or a grading report) is a document referring to the information on the quality characteristics of a particular diamond.
It describes the key features which affect the value of a stone. Apart from the 4 Cs (cut, colour, clarity and carat weight), polish, symmetry, presence of fluorescence and a diagram showing the stone’s most important proportions, this document lists results for any process carried out on the stone, such as clarity and colour enhancements which may have affected its quality.
How to Get Your Diamond Certified
To get your diamond certified you need to approach a reputable gemological laboratory. They will analyze and grade your stone according to strict standards and provide you with a grading report.
Among the most trusted gemological laboratories are the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), American Gem Society (AGS) and European Gemological Laboratory (EGL).
Keep in mind that these organizations do not grade complete pieces of jewellery. They issue reports only for loose gemstones.
For example, you can not send your diamond ring to the GIA to have it graded. If you want a certificate issued for the diamond in your ring, you should have the stone removed by a professional before sending the diamond to the laboratory. This is because the setting in which a diamond is mounted hides part of the stone and makes it hard the determine the stone’s exact features.
In case you want to have the quality of the whole piece determined, you should approach a professional appraiser, who will evaluate both metal parts and the stones.
It is worth mentioning that gemological laboratories do not determine the price of the stones, they evaluate the quality.
Keep in mind that the cost of getting your diamond certified depends on its size and the laboratory you choose, however, the average price is $150.
For an additional $15-$30 you can get a unique ID number laser-inscribed on the stone’s girdle. This will help you identify your diamond among similar-looking stones by matching the ID number given in the report.
Why Should You Have Your Diamond Graded?
The certification provides you with a documented expert opinion. If you decide to sell or exchange your diamond, knowing the quality grades of the stone will give you a better idea of how much money you can get for it.
Besides, the grading report will make it easier for potential buyers to verify the quality of your stone.
The grading report is also necessary if you decide to have your jewellery piece appraised for insurance and any other reason in general.
Cover image credit: G.L. Bicknell & Sons
