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Before purchasing a diamond, you should expect to review a copy of its certificate as proof that it has undergone an unbiased, professional examination.
What is a Certificate?
A diamond certificate, also called a diamond grading report, diamond dossier®, or diamond quality document, is a report created by a team of gemologists. The diamond is evaluated, measured, and scrutinized using trained eyes, a jeweler’s loupe, a microscope, and other industry tools. A completed certificate includes an analysis of the diamond’s dimensions, clarity, color, polish, symmetry, and other characteristics. Many round diamonds will also include a cut grade on the report.
Basically A certificate is a blueprint of a loose diamond. Wholesalers, retailers, and consumers alike know a certificate as either a diamond grading report or diamond dossier. A certificate will tell a diamonds exact measurements, weight, cut and overall quality. A certificate will precisely point out a diamonds individual characteristics as well as be a useful tool when identifying a stone. When shopping for a loose diamond, considering stones that have a grading report will allow you to make an informed decision on which diamond will be ideal for you.
Make sure Diamonds you buy online are Certified
Every loose diamond sold should have been analyzed and graded by either the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) or the American Gem Society Laboratories (AGSL). These two laboratories are among the most respected laboratories in the diamond industry, and are known for their consistency and unbiased diamond grading systems. Diamonds that are accompanied by these grading reports are the most highly valued in the industry.
GIA Certified Diamonds
 GIA is the number one, most respected laboratory in the world. Any diamond submitted to GIA is ensured to have reliable and consistent grading. Anywhere from 3-6 separate gemologists will individually grade each and every diamond for an accurate final grade. GIA grading reports have been considered to be a hallmark of integrity throughout the diamond world. GIA issues two separate types of reports. One of the more common reports is the full issued GIA document, which will have the full description of the diamond as well as a plotting of the grade setting clarity characteristics of that stone. This report is generally used for diamonds 1.00ct and above. The second type of report issued through GIA is the Dossier, which is typically done on diamonds under a carat. The GIA Dossier will have the full individual details of each diamond graded, however the plotting which is normally seen on a report, has been replaced by a laser inscription registry number. This number has been laser inscribed on the diamonds girdle allowing for verification of the stone without a mapping of inclusions. This has allowed GIA not only to save money on issuing full reports on smaller diamonds but has also saved the necessary time needed in plotting a stones diagram.
AGS Certified Diamonds
 AGS is known through out the diamond industry as grading top-notch ideal cut round diamonds. Their high standards surpass those of any other grading laboratory when considering color and clarity as well as cut. If a diamond has been graded by AGS Lab , it has met the standards of what is considered the perfect proportions, polish, and symmetry; and has been given a grade of X or a X rating. AGS Ideal cut round diamonds are highly sought after in todays market.
In addition to being graded by either the GIA or the AGSL, other diamonds can also certified by GCAL. This additional certification provides a second independent and authoritative analysis of your diamond. GCAL also verifies that your diamond meets all of the demanding quality requirements you expect.
View Certificates While Shopping
If you are interested in a specific certified diamond you can view its certificate on the diamond merchants website before purchase. They should offer a variety of grading reports and documentation including:
GIA Diamond Grading Report
GIA Diamond Dossier®
AGSL Diamond Quality Document
GCAL Certificate of Diamond Authenticity
Independent Appraisal
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