Difference Between a Certified and a Non-Certified Diamond

Every diamond shopper would know one mandatory aspect of buying these precious stones: diamond grading certificates. Jewel Smiths suggested purchasing diamond jewelry that comes with diamond grading certificates issued by agencies, such as GIA, SGL, IGI, and more. Both natural and lab-grown stones (synthetic diamonds) must have certificates specifying their characteristics and 4Cs. If a diamond purchase accompanies not receiving a certificate from the retailer (online or offline), the product is deemed fake.

But do all diamonds come with a certificate that proves their authenticity? Or, do these precious stones also come without grading documents suitable for purchase? In this guide, we will answer the question that baffles the mind of many buyers: what is the difference between certified and non-certified diamonds?

What are Diamond Certificates?

Any original stone requires proof that proves it is real; diamond certificates do the same thing for these precious stones. They are issued by renowned diamond grading agencies, both national and international. Only when a diamond stone is graded by an agency and comes with certificate proof does it becomes precious enough to be sold either in jewelry or as loose.

Moreover, diamond certificates carry various information about these precious rocks along with the source of their origin (if the diamonds were mined or lab-created). All this helps in accurately pricing the stones for the consumers. Additionally, you must that diamond certificates consist of information only about the diamonds; it does not include any data about the rest of the jewelry sections if the diamond comes fitted in a necklace, bangle, earrings, or anything else.

Different Types of Diamond Certificates

Many diamond agencies grade and certify diamonds. You do not need to carry all these certificates for every diamond stone or jewelry you purchase. Anyone certificate from below is sufficient to prove the authenticity of diamonds.

• GIA: The Gemological Institute of America
• SGL: Solitaire Gem Labs
• DGLA: Diamond and Gem Laboratories of America
• IGI: International Gemological Institute
• AGS: American Gemological Society
• EGL: The European Gemological Laboratory Organization

Many more diamond grading agencies work to bring real diamonds into the market and help determine their rate. However, the above-listed ones are the most famous, esteemed, and trustworthy diamond market.

Jewel Smiths, a diamond ring company, offers diamond jewelry designs studded with diamonds certified by SGL and IGI labs. You must receive these certificates along with every piece of diamond jewelry from their shop.

Which certificate is best for purchasing a diamond in California?

All the certificates are good and accurate, but the best choice would be to pick IGI, SGL, or AGS diamond certificates as they carry more credibility in California than other certifications. Furthermore, imported diamonds might have credentials that are popular in the region or nation they came from, which is right as well.

Overall, going for one certificate over the other is not wrong. But you need to ensure that the certificates are credible and useable if you ever decide to resell your diamond jewelry or stones.

Characteristics of Certified Diamonds

A ‘certified’ diamond is a polished and cut precious stone that has been examined and approved by a gemologist. These rocks carry different characteristics, all recorded in a grading document by the certifying agency and the gemologist. Usually, the 4Cs, source of origin, report number, and diamond measurements are specified in the grading report. Agencies like GIA, DGLA, IGI, SGL, and AGS are popular for grading diamonds of all types.

Grading a diamond regulates its price in the market and helps consumers identify the different diamond types during their purchase. Buying certified diamonds from a reputable jewelry retailer is recommended and highly affordable.

All the diamond jewelry items sold by Jewel Smiths are certified and come with SGL/IGI grading certificate.

Characteristics of Non-Certified Diamonds

Not all diamonds are graded. Small and inexpensive diamond stones come with grading documents as they offer negligible benefit to the buyers and add significantly to the diamond cost. The only difference between a certified and non-certified diamond stone is the grading document and the assurance of the purchase being real. However, a non-certified diamond could be a good and smart buy if you shop from a trusted jeweler who might not provide a certificate but have your trust.

You can always find non-certified diamonds easily in the market and won’t have to pay as much as the certified diamond. But it would help if you were highly careful while dealing in such scenarios as fake rocks could be sold as non-certified diamonds.

Certified vs. Non-Certified Diamonds

• A certified diamond’s price and consumer demand are based on its characteristics. The report will prove whether the stone is diamond gem grade for commercial use or unfit for jewelry-making purposes.
• An uncertified diamond does not mean it is not real or right for jewelry items. Often, diamond jewelers and retailers overlook grading the diamonds to sell them at affordable rates, perfect for consumers looking for a thrift buy.
• Usually, small and mid-sized diamond stones are overlooked for grading. Large and high-quality diamonds are graded even before being put on the market.
• The increase in e-commerce and online jewelry stores has significantly surged the number of certified diamonds in the market. Buyers are unlikely to shop for diamond rocks that come without grading reports.
• Whether you choose diamond jewelry (or loose), we recommend you exercise caution and shop smartly before finalizing your purchase. Always buy from a trusted diamond retailer (offline or online).

Jewel Smiths recommend diamonds certified by GIA or AGS because they know their grading is consistent, reliable, and trustworthy. They can also guide you on other things such as Gold, Solitaire, and Gemstone Ring Design vig. You can also explore gold rates and gold coins prices on their websites.