If you are comparing GIA grading results with IGI grading results, you’re probably confused about what the differences are. In this article, I’ll give you an overview of the GIA grading standards and how IGI graded the same sample. You’ll also learn how IGI sets color and clarity standards.
IGI grading practices
The IGI employs state-of-the-art scientific grading equipment for its grading practices. This allows for accuracy and consistency in color grading. This grading process includes an analysis of the Four Cs – color, clarity, and cut – of a diamond. Each aspect is evaluated separately and findings are noted in reports.
For the most part, gia vs igi grading practices are comparable to those of GIA. However, IGI’s certifications are more affordable. This means that jewelry stores can use them to increase the value of their diamonds. IGI also offers full GIA certificates for lab-grown diamonds.
IGI also provides advanced screening and detection services. Their state-of-the-art technologies help identify gemstones and determine whether they are natural or synthetic. IGI’s services are trusted by some of the world’s leading companies and brands, including Tiffany and Cartier.
GIA color grading system
The GIA color grading system is based on a number system called saturation. The degree of saturation refers to the depth of color, in effect the intensity of the hue. The numbers 1 through 6 describe the level of saturation. The chart below illustrates how the system works.
The GIA color scale, which starts with D (for colorless) and moves down with increasing color, is the industry standard. It allows gemologists to compare a diamond’s color with a base set of diamonds in each color range. This is a great advancement for diamond color grading, as it represents a new beginning for the industry. The preexisting color grading systems were not always as reliable as they claimed, and the new system was designed to make the process more accurate.
The GIA color grading system rates diamonds from D-Z, with D being completely colorless and Z a light or yellow hue. In addition to the D-Z scale, fancy colored diamonds are graded on a separate scale.
GIA clarity grading system
The GIA clarity grading system ranks diamonds based on their clarity. It uses 6 categories of clarity and 11 specific grades. A diamond with a VVS clarity grade is virtually flawless. Gemstones with a VVS clarity grade have no visible blemishes or inclusions under a 10x magnification. These inclusions can affect a diamond’s brilliance and transparency.
GIA developed its clarity grading system to make diamond buying easier for consumers. Before this system, jewelers gia vs igi often used terms that could be easily misinterpreted. For example, some jewelers referred to a diamond as “loupe clean” or “pique.” Today, every jeweler uses the same clarity grading system. This standardized system enables consumers to compare diamonds easily and facilitates trades among jewelers.
Conclusion
A diamond’s clarity refers to the absence of external and internal blemishes. Clear diamonds are rare and will increase their value. The GIA clarity grading system assigns a clarity grade based on the size and number of inclusions visible under 10x magnification.
