Does GIA Certify Lab Grown Diamonds?
GIA’s Approach to Lab Grown Diamonds
Yes, the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) does certify lab grown diamonds, but with an important distinction from their natural diamond reports. In 2019, GIA introduced a specific grading report dedicated to laboratory-grown diamonds. Before this, GIA offered only identification reports for synthetic diamonds without providing the detailed grading information that natural diamonds received.
GIA’s decision to develop specific reports for lab grown diamonds reflects the growing popularity and market presence of these stones. The institute recognized the need for consumers to have reliable, third-party verification of lab created diamonds’ quality characteristics. However, GIA maintains a clear differentiation between natural and laboratory-grown diamonds in its documentation and terminology.
These lab grown diamond reports use the same D-to-Z color scale and clarity scale that GIA uses for natural diamonds. The main difference lies in the language and format of the report itself. GIA deliberately designed the laboratory-grown diamond report to be visually distinct from its natural diamond grading report, with different colors and formatting to prevent any confusion between the two.
It’s worth noting that GIA refers to these stones specifically as “laboratory-grown” diamonds rather than using terms like “synthetic” which they previously used. This terminology shift acknowledges that while these diamonds are created in controlled environments, they possess essentially the same physical, chemical, and optical properties as natural diamonds.
At Emerson Fine Jewelry in Redlands, we can help you understand these GIA reports and find the perfect lab grown diamond that meets your quality expectations and budget requirements.
The Certification Process for Lab Created Diamonds
The certification process for lab grown diamonds at GIA follows a systematic approach similar to that used for natural diamonds, with some key modifications. When a laboratory-grown diamond is submitted to GIA, it undergoes a series of examinations and tests to verify its synthetic origin and evaluate its quality characteristics.
First, GIA gemologists confirm that the stone is indeed a laboratory-grown diamond and not a simulant or natural diamond. They use advanced spectrometric technology and other specialized equipment to identify growth patterns and other indicators unique to lab created diamonds. These techniques can distinguish between HPHT (High Pressure High Temperature) and CVD (Chemical Vapor Deposition) creation methods.
Once confirmed as lab grown, the diamond undergoes the grading process. GIA evaluates the “4Cs” – carat weight, color, clarity, and cut – using the same standards applied to natural diamonds. The diamond’s dimensions, proportions, and finish are also carefully measured and recorded.
For color grading, GIA uses the established D-to-Z scale, with D representing colorless and Z showing light yellow, brown, or gray. Clarity is assessed on the standard scale ranging from Flawless (FL) to Included (I3). Cut quality for round brilliant lab grown diamonds is graded from Excellent to Poor, examining how well the diamond’s proportions, symmetry, and polish interact with light.
After completing all examinations, GIA issues a Laboratory-Grown Diamond Report that includes all this information along with a plotted diagram showing the diamond’s clarity characteristics. Each report also contains security features and a unique GIA report number that can be verified through GIA’s online database.
It’s important to understand that while the grading standards are the same, the report itself is distinctly different from natural diamond reports in format and appearance to maintain clear differentiation between natural and laboratory-grown products.
Differences Between Natural and Lab Grown Diamond Reports
When comparing GIA reports for natural and lab grown diamonds, several key differences become immediately apparent. These distinctions are intentional and designed to ensure transparency in the diamond market.
The most noticeable difference is in the physical appearance of the reports. GIA’s Laboratory-Grown Diamond Reports feature a distinct design with a different color scheme than natural diamond reports. The laboratory-grown reports have a light blue header, while natural diamond reports typically feature a yellow-gold header. This visual distinction makes it immediately clear which type of diamond is being certified.
Terminology also differs significantly between the two report types. On lab grown reports, GIA prominently displays “LABORATORY-GROWN” in multiple locations to clearly identify the diamond’s origin. The report title itself is explicitly labeled as a “Laboratory-Grown Diamond Report” rather than a “Diamond Grading Report” used for natural stones.
Another important distinction is that GIA uses different report numbers for laboratory-grown diamonds, with specific prefixes that immediately identify them as lab grown. This numbering system provides another layer of differentiation between the two types of reports.
Regarding the technical content, GIA does not issue origin or grade type classifications for laboratory-grown diamonds. While natural diamonds might receive comments about potential treatments or geographic origin, lab grown diamond reports focus solely on the diamond’s quality characteristics without such origin assessments.
GIA also includes specific educational information on laboratory-grown reports, explaining that these diamonds are created in controlled environments rather than formed naturally over millions of years. This educational component reinforces consumer awareness about the fundamental difference between natural and laboratory-grown diamonds.
At Emerson Fine Jewelry, we can help explain these differences and guide you through selecting the perfect diamond for your needs, whether natural or lab grown.
Alternative Certification Options for Lab Diamonds
While GIA certification provides excellent assurance for lab grown diamonds, several other reputable gemological laboratories also offer certification services that might be suitable alternatives depending on your needs.
The International Gemological Institute (IGI) has established itself as one of the leading certifiers of lab grown diamonds. Many consider IGI the primary go-to lab for synthetic diamond certification. IGI offers comprehensive reports that grade lab grown diamonds on the same 4Cs scale as natural diamonds. Their reports are widely accepted in the industry and often more affordable and faster to obtain than GIA reports.
Another respected option is GCAL (Gemological Certification and Assurance Lab), which provides detailed Gemprint identification along with their certificates. GCAL has been praised for their rigorous standards and consistent grading practices. Their certificates include high-resolution images and light performance information that some consumers find valuable.
HRD Antwerp also certifies lab grown diamonds, using similarly stringent standards to those applied to natural diamonds. Their reports are particularly respected in European markets and provide comprehensive details about a diamond’s characteristics.
The American Gem Society Laboratories (AGS) has also entered the lab grown diamond certification market, known for their cut grading expertise. Their scientific approach to cut quality evaluation offers detailed information about light performance.
When choosing between certification options, consider factors like reputation, recognition in your local market, cost, turnaround time, and the specific information provided on the report. Some retailers might prefer certain labs over others, and pricing can vary significantly between certifiers.
It’s worth noting that each lab may have slight variations in their grading standards, which can sometimes result in different grades for the same diamond. This phenomenon, known as “lab shopping,” highlights the importance of understanding the reputation and consistency of the certifying laboratory you choose.
Why Certification Matters for Lab Grown Diamonds
Certification from reputable institutions like GIA provides crucial assurance when purchasing lab grown diamonds, serving several important functions for both consumers and the industry.
First and foremost, certification offers verification of authenticity. A proper certificate confirms that what you’re purchasing is indeed a laboratory-grown diamond with the same physical, chemical, and optical properties as natural diamonds—not a diamond simulant like cubic zirconia or moissanite. In a market where visual distinctions can be impossible to detect with the naked eye, this verification is invaluable.
Certification also provides standardized quality assessment. The detailed evaluation of a lab grown diamond’s 4Cs (cut, color, clarity, and carat weight) gives consumers objective information about the diamond’s characteristics. This standardization allows for fair market comparison and appropriate pricing based on quality factors.
For investment purposes, certification is essential. Laboratory-grown diamonds generally don’t appreciate in value like some natural diamonds, but certification still protects your purchase by documenting exactly what you own. This documentation becomes important for insurance purposes and potential future resale.
Transparency in the market is another critical benefit of certification. As lab grown diamonds become increasingly prevalent, clear identification through certification helps maintain consumer confidence. Without proper certification, there could be potential for misrepresentation, whether intentional or unintentional.
Certification also assists in tracking technological advancements in diamond production. As growing techniques evolve and improve, certificates provide chronological documentation of these changes, which can be useful for both industry professionals and collectors interested in the technological history of lab created diamonds.
At Emerson Fine Jewelry, we believe in complete transparency and only offer lab grown diamonds with proper certification to ensure our customers can make informed decisions with confidence.
Tips for Buying Certified Lab Grown Diamonds
When shopping for certified lab grown diamonds, following these expert tips can help ensure you make a well-informed purchase that meets your expectations and provides excellent value.
Always verify the certifying laboratory’s reputation. While GIA is highly respected, other labs like IGI and GCAL also provide reliable certification for lab grown diamonds. Research the certifying body’s standards and reputation before making your purchase, as grading consistency can vary between laboratories.
Study the certificate thoroughly. Don’t just glance at the 4Cs grades; take time to understand the complete report. Pay attention to any comments about treatments, growth methods (HPHT or CVD), and whether any post-growth treatments were applied to enhance color. Some treatments may affect long-term durability or value.
Compare the actual diamond to its certificate. When possible, view the diamond in person alongside its certificate to confirm that identifying characteristics match. If buying online, request videos and detailed images, and ensure the retailer has a clear return policy if the delivered diamond doesn’t match its certification.
Understand that cutting quality matters tremendously. Even with lab grown diamonds, cut quality significantly impacts beauty and brilliance. A well-cut lab grown diamond with slightly lower color or clarity often appears more beautiful than a poorly cut diamond with better color and clarity grades.
Don’t overlook fluorescence. Some lab grown diamonds exhibit fluorescence under UV light. While this isn’t necessarily negative, strong fluorescence can sometimes affect a diamond’s appearance in certain lighting conditions. The certificate should note any fluorescence present.
Consider certification costs in pricing comparisons. GIA certification typically costs more than certification from other labs, which may be reflected in the diamond’s price. When comparing prices between diamonds with different lab reports, factor in these certification cost differences.
At Emerson Fine Jewelry in Redlands, we help our customers understand these nuances of diamond certification. We’re committed to providing comprehensive information about our lab grown diamond collection, ensuring you can select a beautiful, certified stone that fits your preferences and budget.