Diamond certification

Diamond certification is essential when you are buying a diamond.

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 4Cs – carat weight, cut, colour 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. Find out how much you should spend on a diamond.

Who provides diamond certification?

Diamond certificates are issued by independent gemological laboratories. There are several grading laboratories, the most prominent being: the International Gemological Institute (IGI) ; the Gemological Institute of America (GIA); the American Gem Society (AGS); the European Gemological Laboratories (EGL) and GemEx Systems.

When you buy a diamond, be sure to question the sales assistant first about the characteristics or attributes of the stone. " Is it IGI certified ?" you might ask. Ask to see the diamond certification that will accompany the diamond when you purchase it. If you do some comparison shopping, you will note that the quality of the diamonds offered varies depending on the individual jeweler. Learn more about the best place to buy a diamond.

What else does diamond certification measure?

An additional certification exclusively measures Return of Light . Learn more about Return of Light and how it affects the beauty and brilliance of a diamond. When it comes to measuring the value of diamonds , don't underestimate brilliance! The Leo Diamond® was the first diamond ever to be independently measured and certified for superior brilliance.

Another major factor when buying a diamond is choosing a jeweler who deals with a highly reputable artisan. Leo Schachter is trusted by the world's finest jewelers to masterfully cut, design and polish diamonds in such a way as to release their maximum potential for beauty and brilliance. Jewelers know they can rely on us to ensure each diamond's beauty, value, desirability and authenticity. Consider visiting an authorized Leo Schachter jeweler, before you make your final purchasing decision.

Other factors to consider when choosing a diamond are:

•  The 4Cs

•  Shape

•  Beauty and brilliance

•  Branded vs unbranded

•  How much you want to spend

•  Which setting you should choose

•  The best place to buy a diamond

How do you get her to say “yes”? Here are some great proposal ideas.