Certified Vs Non-Certified

No two stones are exactly alike, which can make shopping for one somewhat difficult. One of the most significant attributes of the selection process is whether or not the stone is certified. Certification is the written proof of a stone's unique characteristics.

The greatest benefit of purchasing a certified stone is that you have written documentation that the stone has the exact specifications that the jeweler claims the stone to be. Purchasing a non-certified stone for this reason alone can be quite alarming, especially if your knowledge is limited on diamonds and gemstones. In addition, this helps with acquiring an appraisal.

For diamonds, the certification lists not only the date the stone was certified but whether or not it has an inscription, the shape and cutting style, measurements, carat weight, color grade, clarity grade, cut grade, the polish and symmetry, and the fluorescence. In addition, many certifications include a diagram, called a plot, indicating the exact locations of inclusions as well as the type of inclusion. It also provides you with the diamonds proportions and, perhaps one of the most significant qualities to look for, whether or not the stone is damaged or color treated.

The type of certification is something to be considered as well. The three major certifications that exist are from the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), European Gemological Laboratory (EGL), and American Gem Society (AGS). Here at Inta Gems we consider the AGS to have the most strict guidelines and to be extremely credible; however, the GIA is probably the most well-renowned insitution. In fact, most of our stones have certifications from the GIA.

Guidelines from the AGS and GIA are much more strict than the EGL. In some cases, we have noticed EGL certified stones color to vary in a half or full grade in difference when compared to GIA or AGS. Because of this reason, it is suggested that when purchasing an EGL certified stone, that you strive for a higher quality diamond.

Purchasing certified can have a great impact on the price of the stone, which can be as much as $100-$125 per carat. The type of certification can also create a difference in price. Because EGL certified stones tend to be a little lower in quality in comparison to AGS or GIA certified stones, the price can be a little lower.

Purchasing non-certified, also has some excellent benefits. Non-certified stones are significantly less in price. The most identifiable negative to purchasing non-certified; however, is that the stone having qualities that you are not aware of. To avoid this, always go to a reputable jeweler with years of education and experience on diamonds and of course the industry.

According to FTC guidelines, jewelers are required to label color, clarity, and cut grades accurately within one grade. If you are on a budget but would like to purchase a higher quality diamond, purchasing a non-certified stone from a jeweler you trust is a great way to save money. At InStyle Diamonds, not only can you purchase certified and non-certified diamonds, but at wholesale prices as well.

To view our selection of certified and non-certified diamonds at wholesale prices visit http://www.instylediamonds.com/rt/sform.pl?cfg=adi.

There are plenty of stones that are very inexpensive, but also have the guarantee that your purchase has value.