We are reader-supported. Buying through any red colored link on our site may earn us commissions. Learn More.
How much difference does the country location of the particular GIA lab make with regard to accuracy/reliability of grading? How can an online buyer discern which GIA lab provided a certificate? Thanks.
1) There is no way to discern online or in person. 99.9% of all GIA certified diamonds are certified by the wholesalers, not the actual jewelers. So they can’t know as well.
2) Our experience has been that there is no difference between the labs. There was a brief period when the lab in India was opened where they were a bit weak (specifically on identifying brown tints), but that seems to have firmed up. We are running tests the next few months to confirm this.
Honestly, that seems to be just the latest “kitchen sink” argument that salespeople in stores have thrown out there.
Great. Thanks for the response and the info.
My pleasure.
Thanks for all of the great info! Thanks, as well, for your response to my earlier question about distinctions among the GIA labs located in different countries. Useful insight all around.
I am in the market for a vivid, eye-clean, brilliant round diamond for a white gold tapered baguette setting. I can probably stretch to $27.5k for a diamond that’s a great buy, but I’d otherwise prefer to hover around $25k. Like many others, I’d like to prioritize vivid brilliance/cut while maximizing size — ideally reaching something approaching 3.0 carats or so. With that in mind, fluorescence doesn’t scare me, as long as the attribute is used properly and proves helpful. I’ve checked a few prices via different sites. Now, I could use a bit of help and expertise narrowing and simplifying things for a decision. Thanks.
I found this ring that looks great and I thought you might like it as well:
www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/round-cut/2.80-carat-i-color-si1-clarity-excellent-cut-sku-2398503?a_aid=dmnd1357
The diamond is not a full 3ct, but it’s very close to that. It’s eye-clean and will be very bright and brilliant.
Let me know what you think.
You’re right. Beautiful, clean-looking diamond. Thanks!
I’m glad you like it! Let me know how it goes.
What we love about them:
- No questions asked returns within 30 days of shipment. James Allen will send you a paid shipping label to return the ring.
- Lifetime Warranty
- Free International Shipping
- Free prong tightening, repolishing, rhodium plating and cleaning every 6 months
- Provide insurance appraisals
- One free resizing within 60 days of purchase
- Free ring inscriptions
- Best-in-class high quality imagery of all diamonds in stock
- 24/7 Customer Service
- Best-in-class packaging
What we love about them:
- No questions asked returns within 30 days of shipment. Blue Nile will send you a paid shipping label to return the ring.
- Lifetime Warranty
- Free Shipping
- Free prong tightening, repolishing, rhodium plating and cleaning every 6 months
- Provide insurance appraisal
- One free resizing within the first year of purchase
- High quality images of about half of their diamonds
- 24/7 Customer Service
- 100% credit towards future upgrades (must be at least double in value)
- Best in class fulfillment
Still afraid of getting ripped off?
Before you buy a diamond, get personal buying advice from industry veterans. We'll help you get the best diamond for the money.
Ask your diamond purchase question here
DISCLAIMER: We don't use your email for marketing. Period.
