Diamond and Jewelry Certificates & Appraisals

Because each and every diamond is unique and subjective in terms of color, clarity, luster and value, companies dealing with diamonds usually submit their diamonds to the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) for the necessary diamond grading reports or diamond certificates. The GIA, one of the major and leading gemological laboratories, is undeniably the most popular, trusted and respected institutes in the field of diamond certification or grading.

The diamond grading report contains a reliable description of the diamond’s cut, clarity, color, and carat weight known as the 4Cs, their measurements, the angles and proportions of the facets as well as the imperfections and cutting workmanship, but not the appraised value of the diamond.

So what are these diamond certificates for? For one thing, the certificate establishes the true quality and genuineness of the stone and the report gives an objective comparison through an unbiased and professional examination by a gemological laboratory like that of the GIA, a non-profit organization that is not in any way engaged in buying and selling diamonds. The diamond certificate likewise facilitates smooth transaction by providing a dependable basis for the gem’s price and insurance.

Aside from GIA, there are many independent grading laboratories all over the world. Some have stellar reputations within their communities and countries while some are, unfortunately, ethically questionable. The GIA has been known as a leading authority on diamonds the world over and their grading reports have, arguably, achieved the highest ethical standards within the diamond industry.

In addition to grading reports are the appraisal certificates issued by an independent appraiser or an appraiser connected with the jewelers who are skilled in the process. They may be graduate gemologists, particularly for diamonds, or jewelry professionals engaged in the trade of diamonds. Their certification can be backed by diamond certificates from gemological laboratories if there are any. Otherwise, they evaluate the diamond similar to what the GIA does by evaluating the jewelry component and fully describing the article.

Unlike diamond certificates issued by a gem lab, the appraisal certificates contains the estimated total retail replacement value for the complete item after considering the result of the appraisal, the item’s rarity, if applicable, and its marketability. This value can vary from one appraiser to another.

When insuring jewelry, all insurers require a copy of the jewelry appraisal with the application for insurance coverage. Certificates and appraisals tell about the origin and genuineness of the jewelry as well as its insurability.