EGL vs. GIA Certificates

When you are buying or selling a diamond, knowing whether your diamonds are EGL or GIA certified can mean a significant difference in value. It can also help you provide your prospective diamond buyer with details to help accurately determine your diamond's worth. In turn, they can use this information to your benefit as they consider the diamond's "credentials."

GIA Certified Diamonds

GIA stands for the Gemological Institute of America, the most respected credential agency for diamonds and other gems anywhere in the world. A certificate from the GIA means that the experts in gemological studies has examined the diamond and gave a standard measure of the:

• Cut
• Color
• Clarity
• Carat Size

Different jewelers will often come to slightly different conclusions when examining your diamond. This is why a GIA certificate is especially important. It creates a standard that helps ensure the true value of certified diamonds on the market.

Locating Your GIA Number and Carat Weight

EGL Certified Diamonds

The European Gemological Laboratory started in the 1970s as a competitor to the GIA with a US branch to certify stones. An EGL certification helps value a diamond's unique characteristics and ensure its authenticity. Rather than use the 4 "Cs", it evaluates a diamond using several characteristics such as:

• Weight
• Shape
• Proportions
• Finish
• Color Grade
• Clarity Grade
  

Locating Your EGL Number

Locating important information on your EGL certificate is easy. Please reference the following image if you have any questions. Our diamond specialists will be better able to assist you if you have this information on hand.