When you are looking for any type of diamond jewelry from a pair of earrings to an engagement or wedding ring, it is important to buy only certified diamond jewelry. The term certified diamond jewelry refers to a diamond that has undergone rigorous grading, which allows you, as the consumer, to know the exact grade of the diamond before you make the purchase.
Initially all diamonds are non-certified. This includes both rough diamonds and diamonds that have been cut, polished and prepared for sale either as loose stones or in diamond jewelry. However, in an additional step, the diamond may be sent off to one of just a few gem labs. These gem labs are accredited and must follow strict, set standards in grading the diamonds they receive.
Gem Labs
The most common gem labs used internationally including the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), the American Gem Society (AGS), the European Gemological Laboratory (EGL), the Hoge Raad Voor Diamant (HRD) and the International Gemological Institute (IGI). The specific lab that produced the document for the certified diamond jewelry will be listed on the certificate provided with the jewelry item or loose stone.
Grades
Diamond grades will vary slightly depending on the specific lab and for that reason typically the GIA is considered the top option. The GIA actually developed the international grading standard so they are considered the authority.
Grades for certified diamond jewelry include four components or the 4Cs of diamonds. These are color, clarity, carat weight and cut.
Color is graded from D through to Z with D being colorless and Z having a noticeable yellow, gray or brown color. This is natural to the gem as is the clarity, which is the flawlessness or inclusions in the diamond. The third factor, the carat weight, is the actual weight of the diamond. Each carat is divided into 100 points and is a combination of the natural diamond and the cut.
Cut is determined by how the diamonds was cut by a jeweler, and if the cut is mathematically correct to allow the greatest amount of brilliance and light dispersion.
Top gems that are certified diamond jewelry will indicate the 4Cs on the certificate, allowing the buyer to know exactly the quality of the diamond they are considering. This is also beneficial in comparing jewelry to get the best possible quality of stones.
The benefits of buying only certified diamond jewelry. For more information visit web.
