Everything You Need to Know About Lab-Grown Diamonds and IGI Certificates in 2 Minutes

Many people are eager to buy lab-grown diamonds but feel uncertain about choosing the right one. Are you confused by the IGI certificate? Don't worry! Today, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about lab-grown diamonds and IGI certificates so you can make a more informed decision.

Understanding the 4Cs of Diamonds

When buying a diamond, four key factors are commonly known as the 4Cs: Weight, Color, Clarity, and Cut. Let’s break them down:

1. Weight: This refers to the size of the diamond, usually measured in carats. One carat is equal to 0.2 grams. Generally, the larger the diamond, the more expensive it is.

2. Color: Diamonds are graded on a scale from D (colorless) to Z (light yellow). D is the highest grade, with no color, while Z diamonds show noticeable yellow or brown tones. If you want great value for money, diamonds with grades E or F are a good choice, as they still look nearly colorless. Most jewelry stores offer diamonds in the H color grade, which is still excellent for most buyers.

3. Clarity: Clarity refers to inclusions (tiny imperfections) within the diamond. These can only be seen under magnification (10x magnification). Lab-grown diamonds with VS clarity offer an outstanding balance of value and quality. If you have a higher budget, choose VVS, which has fewer inclusions. Diamonds with SI clarity (below VS) might have visible flaws under magnification and should be avoided if you aim for a flawless sparkle.

4. Cut: The cut of the diamond directly affects its fire (how it sparkles). A well-cut diamond will have more brilliance and shine, so choosing the proper cut is crucial.

IGI Certificates: What to Look For

The IGI (International Gemological Institute) certificate ensures the quality of the diamond you are buying. There are a few key grading terms to look out for:

• 3EX (Triple Excellent): The diamond has excellent cut, polish, and symmetry, resulting in the best possible fire and brilliance.
• ID (Ideal): This indicates the diamond has ideal proportions, maximizing its sparkle and beauty.
• 2EX (Two Excellent): A diamond with excellent cut and polish but slightly lower symmetry might result in a weaker fire.

Fluorescence: Diamonds can have fluorescence, affecting their appearance in different lighting. It’s best to choose diamonds with NONE fluorescence, as medium or strong fluorescence can cause the diamond to appear cloudy.

Essential Details to Check:

• Girdle: Diamonds have a unique code on the girdle (the waist), like the diamond’s fingerprint. Always check this code when purchasing a diamond.

• Growth Method: Lab-grown diamonds are created using two main methods: CVD (Chemical Vapor Deposition) and HTHP (High-Temperature, High Pressure). While both methods are reliable, the growth method is less critical if the other factors (4Cs) are good.

• 8-Star 8-Arrow: Many buyers prefer round diamonds with an "8-star 8-arrow" pattern, which indicates a well-cut diamond. This is all about proportions, like the table percentage and crown angle.

What Makes a Diamond’s Proportions Ideal?

• Total Depth: Ideally between 60%-62%
• Table Percentage: Ideally between 55%-58%
• Crown Angle: Ideally between 34°-35°

While diamonds that don't meet the exact ideal proportions can still be beautiful, it's important to note that the design, setting, and craftsmanship also play a massive role in the overall appeal.

Understanding the 5 Major Diamond Certifying Labs

You may already know about GIA (Gemological Institute of America), but there are other labs worth knowing for diamond certification:

1. GIA (Gemological Institute of America)
2. AGS (American Gem Society)
3. IGI (International Gemological Institute)
4. EGL (European Gemological Laboratory)
5. HRD (Hoge Raad voor Diamant)

 GIA, AGS, and HRD are known for their rigorous grading standards. AGS focuses heavily on Ideal Cut grading, while HRD also has a strong reputation for strict standards.

Although GIA is the most well-known, IGI is the most commonly used for lab-grown diamonds, and it’s widely recognized for its reliable grading. However, be aware that IGI certifications vary by region—IGI Shanghai is known for being the strictest, while IGI India may downgrade diamonds more, resulting in lower prices.

Should You Choose GIA or IGI?

GIA certificates have been the gold standard for natural diamonds, but IGI certificates are more commonly used for lab-grown diamonds. IGI Shanghai offers the highest certification standards, ensuring that the diamond you buy is of excellent quality.

If you’re looking for lab-grown diamonds, feel free to contact us! We offer customization options, and you can choose loose stones to see in our video streams or live sessions for a more effortless buying experience.