Certification is proof of a diamond’s 4C’s grading. Although many diamonds look the same, they are not all going to be of equal quality. Diamond certification is the written proof of a diamond’s attributes. Without it, you have no assurance the diamond you are buying is worth the price you are paying. With diamond certification, you know the precise grading for each of the 4C’s – carat weight, cut, color and clarity – and, therefore, the diamond value.

Certification gives you the information you need to assess a diamond’s fair market value. It also allows you to make informed comparisons with other diamonds either in the same jewelry store or in another and find out how much you should spend on a diamond. Diamond certificates are issued by independent gemological laboratories.

When you buy a certified diamond from a trusted jeweler, ask to see the diamond certification reports that will accompany the diamond when you purchase it. There are several grading laboratories, the most prominent being: