What is an IGI Certificate?
Key Takeaways
- IGI Diamond Certification is a diamond appraisal certificate issued by the International Gemological Institute (IGI), aimed at authenticating the technical specifications and actual value of the stone. Established in 1975, IGI is...
IGI Diamond Certification is a diamond appraisal certificate issued by the International Gemological Institute (IGI), aimed at authenticating the technical specifications and actual value of the stone. Established in 1975, IGI is currently one of the world's largest independent appraisal organizations, providing detailed reports on clarity, color, and cut for both natural and lab-grown diamonds. To better understand the reputation of this type of certificate in the market, let Jemmia guide you through the details below.
Overview of the International Gemological Institute (IGI)
Gemological Institute International (IGI) was established in 1975. The International Gemological Institute is the largest independent gemological laboratory in the world. It is present in most major cities where active diamond trading takes place.
IGI's mission is to provide expertise in diamonds. Helping industry professionals as well as consumers grasp accurate and reliable information through educational programs, diamond certifications, and fine jewelry.
See more: What is a F color diamond, and how much does it cost?
IGI Diamond Certification is a diamond appraisal certificate issued by the International Gemological Institute
IGI Diamond Certification's Diamond Appraisal Standards
Most diamonds have similar appraisal standards. The names and appraisal processes may differ slightly, but most still follow a certain set of rules.
Each diamond is scientifically analyzed by a number of gemologists. The experts will use modern equipment and tools to accurately describe the characteristics of the diamond. These characteristics include many different standards, but they mainly follow the 4C standards and are based on the cut standard.
- Diamond Weight: Experts measure the diamond's weight (carat) using carefully calibrated instruments. Then, they perform other measurements for the diamond.
- Diamond Color: Diamond color is evaluated on a scale from D to Z, ranging from colorless to yellow. This is done by comparing the color to pre-determined colored diamonds.
- Diamond Clarity: Professional gemologists will use a special viewer and a 10x magnifying loupe to inspect the diamond's inclusions. The clarity grades under IGI Diamond Certification are assessed on a scale from IF to I3. This scale ranges from internally flawless to included. The diamond's characteristics are drawn on a diamond diagram.
- Finish: A diamond's finish includes elements such as polish, symmetry, and proportions. Graded from Excellent to Poor, polish and symmetry are evaluated based on the quality of the polishing and the accuracy of the facet junctions.
- IGI Diamond Report: This is a detailed analysis of the stone's characteristics regarding clarity, weight, color, symmetry, and cut proportions.
- IGI Diamond ID: This is an identification number containing information similar to a diamond report but without a diagram.
Most diamonds have similar appraisal standards
See more: Fancy cut diamonds and what you need to know
IGI Diamond Report
The IGI Diamond Report (Full Report) provides a comprehensive analysis of the 4Cs, cut proportions, and importantly, includes a plotting diagram that illustrates the location of inclusions within the stone.
IGI Diamond Report
IGI Diamond ID
IGI Diamond ID is a simplified version in the form of a credit card or passport. This document contains full 4C parameters but omits the plotting diagram, making it suitable for smaller diamonds.
If you are purchasing diamonds and need to prove their origin and quality, ask the seller about IGI Diamond Certification.
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Comparison of IGI and GIA Certifications
Understanding the differences between these two organizations helps customers gain an objective perspective on asset value.
| Criteria | IGI Certification | GIA Certification |
| Popularity | Very strong in Europe and Asia | Global gold standard |
| Lab-grown diamonds | Pioneer in large-scale grading | Strict grading but focuses on natural diamonds |
| Liquidity | Good, common in retail jewelry | Highest, preferred for investment |
| Grading cost | Generally lower than GIA | Higher due to rigorous process |
Jemmia Diamond – Reputable Diamond Purchase Location
Although IGI is a reputable certificate, in Vietnam, GIA-certified diamonds are still the top choice due to their price retention and superior liquidity. Jemmia Diamond is proud to be an authorized diamond expert from GIA, offering an absolutely safe investment solution:
- 100% Official Import: Complete legal documents, VAT invoices, and accompanying GIA certificates.
- Quality Control 2%: Only select diamonds with the world's best specifications, free from structural flaws.
- GIA iD100 Technology: 100% of products are scanned by the most modern machinery from the US to ensure natural origin.
- Value Protection: Refer to the Jemmia diamond price list with a buy-back/exchange policy of up to 100%, guaranteeing the highest market liquidity.
Jemmia Diamond – Reputable Diamond Purchase Location
IGI Diamond Certification is a reputable certificate that helps to clarify diamond quality internationally. Possessing an IGI certificate allows users to clearly identify the origin and technical specifications, thus feeling more secure in the transaction process. However, to optimize long-term asset value, you should prioritize diamonds with GIA certification from reputable sources like Jemmia Diamond.
