subject: Certified Diamonds For Engagement Rings [print this page] Unlike gold or platinum, diamonds do not have a hallmark to guarantee quality and authenticity instead a stringent level of certification is used. In order to achieve certification an industry expert examines the diamond and places it into a category in which it can be compared with other diamonds. An engagement or wedding are amongst the most important occasions in a person"s life and every attempt must be made to ensure that everything is perfect, from the dress to the cake to the symbolic jewellery.
Although it is possible to buy jewellery, more specifically engagement rings from more generic suppliers such as department stores and the like they are not likely to have the industry expertise to answer questions relating to the certification of the stones that are set in the jewellery. Specialist and reputable suppliers should be able to answer all the customer questions in relation to the quality of the diamond and also provide some form of documentation regarding the grading of the stone.
Simply put, a certified diamond is one that has been graded by an internationally accredited laboratory according to clarity, cut, colour and clarity with the higher grade stones generally being used in the production of high quality engagement rings. The best known and most recognised grading laboratories include the GIA (Gemmological Institute of America), the IGI (International Gemmological Institute) and the HRD. (Hoge Raad Voor Diamant) Although other grading laboratories exist the three aforementioned bodies are generally regarded as the leaders in the sector and are utilised by the vast majority of established jewellers and diamond traders.
Buying non certified stones is a gamble for the uninitiated or inexperienced, many people think they can buy at source overseas and make a good profit, this is rarely the case. Aside from the risk of buying poor quality stones there is also the matter of paying duty to the relevant customs departments in both the source and destination countries. Diamonds as well as other precious stones are by no stretch of the imagination cheap items to buy so it is essential that a person knows what they are buying before parting with any money. Buying diamonds and diamond jewellery from specialists who only sell certified stones is the best way to ensure quality products and also a means of redress in the event of any problems.
