You have to be so careful about which certificate you accept with your diamond. IGI, HRD and EGL all use different standards for diamond colour and clarity than GIA. You can in no way compare the price of a GIA certified diamond with a diamond of the same colour and clarity certified by another organisation. In addition, there is no reason these days for a jeweller to sell an uncertified diamond. In this case you have no evidence of the true value of this diamond and take a huge risk - read more.

GIA

A view of Earth from space.The Gemological Institute of America is the giant of diamond grading and gemology. A non profit organisation it is responsible for the training of most of the world’s gemologists.

 

It remains the ultimate standard for diamond grades. GIA is above reproach and the only certificate to be trusted.

 

Diamond.ie opinion : THIS IS THE ONLY CERTIFICATE TO ACCEPT. If you have received a price for another certificate ask your supplier to provide a price for GIA only.


View a GIA certificate.
GIA’s Website.

 
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HRD
A view of Earth from space.

HRD is a Belgian certifier popular due to it's location at the heart of Antwerp's diamond district. Their approach to colour and clarity grading is neither consistent nor accurate in my opinion. I have appraised many HRD certified diamonds and found one in particular that would be GIA clarity "I1" graded by HRD as "SI1".

 

If comparing prices of a GIA certified diamond with an HRD certified diamond of exactly the same grades you should discount the HRD diamond by up to 30% to get an equivalent value.

 

Diamond.ie opinion : Buy with caution.


View an HRD certificate.
HRD’s website.
 

IGI
A view of Earth from space.

The International Gemological Institute is another worldwide diamond certification authority.  It tries to work off the same strict standards as GIA but unfortunately fails often.

 

If comparing prices of a GIA certified diamond with an IGI certified diamond of exactly the same grades you should discount the IGI diamond by 40% depending on which country office of IGI the certificate is issued from. The following is based on our opinion and experience:

 

Belgium - discount 20%;

Dubai - discount 40%;

New York and LA- discount 15%

 

Diamond.ie opinion : Don't buy one from Dubai. The others are ok.


View an IGI certificate.
IGI’s website.
 
 

EGL
A view of Earth from space.

European Gemological Lab is a franchise. Do not expect your EGL grades to match GIA’s or IGIs. Most honest professionals will tell you this. With expert and independent advice you could purchase an EGL certified diamond but otherwise steer clear.

 

If comparing prices of a GIA certified diamond with an EGL certified diamond of exactly the same grades good luck!!! You should discount the EGL diamond by up to 40%

Diamond.ie opinion: Never ever buy one.

EGL's Los Angeles website.