What does IGI diamond certification mean?

ByCarl A. Jones, GIA GG

When looking to purchase a diamond, you want to ensure you know what you are buying. Have you been looking online or in-store and noticed something called an IGI diamond certification? If you are unaware of what an IGI diamond certification is, we are here to explain the facts, so you know what it is, you are looking into.

An IGI diamond certification means that a diamond has been professionally analyzed by an IGI gemologist. They have followed strict international standards to determine what the key points of the diamonds are. It helps to compare against other diamonds, to determine the four C’s for the specific diamond, and to assess a price thoroughly.

There are different types of gemologist institutions that follow a variety of standards. Some are seen as better than others, and this means when buying it might cost more. If you decide to sell your diamond, it will value at different prices based on different gemologists. It is wise to learn about each one and figure out what is best for you.

What Is the IGI?

The IGI is the International Gemological Institute. According to IGI, when they analyze a diamond, they follow a strict international standard when it comes to inspecting specific factors regarding the diamond.

What Does IGI Certified Mean

An IGI certified diamond means that the has been professionally assessed by the International  Gemologist Institute, who are professional gemologists that follow an international standard. It means that the diamond has been accurately assessed for the diamond’s cut, color, clarity, and carat weight. The IGI described themselves as following a strict international guideline to analyze different diamonds.

Why Does an IGI Diamond Report Matter?

An IGI report does matter to an extent because they are the international standards for examining diamonds; this means that it is not only based on criteria set in the United States of America but across the world. If you are looking to sell your diamond in the United Kingdom, an IGI diamond report will relate to their standards.

No matter where the diamond is certified, it will show the same type of important information. A diamond report shows the following information:

  • Shape
  • Dimensions
  • Carat Weight
  • Color Grade
  • Clarity Grade
  • Standard of Finish
  • Cut Grade

Some institutions will add further details, but most institutions will require this as the standard information.

Are IGI Diamonds Worth More?

IGI diamonds are worth more than a diamond that has not been certified; this is because diamond reports are usually well trusted. An IGI certification will confirm the physical attributes of a diamond; it helps to protect you as a buyer because it ensures the information is accurate.

Is an IGI Certificate Worth It?

Any type of diamond certificate is worth it; therefore, it is worth having an IGI certificate, especially if you are unable to have your diamond certified by the GIA or AGS. It is better to have a diamond certified rather than uncertified.

Certified diamonds are worth more money; therefore, it is better value to have a certified diamond. For example, suppose you are planning on selling a diamond outside of the United States of America.

In this case, an IGI certification might be seen as better rather than a certificate that only follows the standards set in the USA. Each country might have its own standards, but if you do not live in the specific country you want to sell in, it is better to use an international standard.

Is IGI Certification Reliable?

We would not advise or recommend purchasing a diamond with an IGI certification, nor would we recommend using them to certify your diamond. We don’t believe they are as reliable as other diamond certifications such as GIA (Gemological Institute of America) and AGS (American Gem Society). The grading criteria is less consistent and less strict than the other ones we have listed.

Is IGI as Reputable as GIA?

An IGI certification is not as reputable as a GIA certification. Research shows that an IGI diamond and a GIA diamond being sold on James Allen (see also Is James Allen GIA Certified?), with the exact same traits, the IGI diamond is sold for 12% less. This means that if you were picking between the two, it would be better to go for a GIA diamond analysis.

GIA are the leaders of the diamond certification industry when it comes to certifying diamonds. The GIA came up with the well-known 4C’s (cut, color, clarity and carat weight), as well as writing a grading book that other sellers and gemologists use to grade, compare, and price diamonds. This is why they are classed as the gold standard.

Ultimately, we recommend that you should purchase a diamond that has been certified in comparison to one which has not been certified. If you have a choice between buying an IGI or GIA certified diamond, GIA is more reputable, and we would recommend that rather than IGI.

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