
DIAMOND GUIDES
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A Guide to Diamond Certification
Diamond certification is an important consideration when purchasing a diamond. By understanding the process of diamond certification, as well as the terms listed on a diamond grading report and the leading authorities in the field, you can better evaluate the quality, integrity and sourcing of a diamond or gemstone.
What is diamond certification?
Diamond certification, or diamond grading, is a comprehensive evaluation carried out by an independent gemological laboratory. A detailed assessment examines a diamond’s quality based on the 4Cs: cut, color, clarity, and carat weight. A grading report or certificate ensures you are fully informed about the quality of a diamond. It also adds a level of transparency to your purchase and guarantees that a diamond has been independently assessed.
Understanding diamond certification terms
Typically, a diamond certificate – which is issued following the certification process – encompasses the following information:
Grading report number: Each diamond is assigned a unique identification number, which ensures its traceability and can be cross-checked on the certifying laboratory's website.
4Cs: A diamond’s cut, color, clarity and carat weight are described in detail.
Additional grading information: Depending on the laboratory, details such as symmetry, polish, fluorescence and measurements (among other specifics) may be included.
Diamond plot: A visual representation or map of the diamond that showcases any inclusion or blemishes.
Laser inscription: Many of Graff’s stones are inscribed with the Graff logo, using laser-engraving technology, which is invisible to the naked eye.


Gemological Institute of America
The Gemological Institute of America (GIA): Established in 1931, the GIA is a public-benefit, non-profit institute renowned for its gemmological research.
The GIA’s discoveries continue to deepen an understanding of gemstones and the world. The GIA protects consumers through analysis, education, and gem grading and sets global quality standards. The GIA independently verifies the origins of many of Graff’s diamonds and gemstones.
The GIA developed a standardized carat weight grading system to ensure consistency and accuracy in diamond grading. The system ranges from 0.01 to 10 carats, with each category representing a specific range of weights.
As you embark upon your diamond journey, remember that obtaining diamond certification is vital in ensuring both quality and authenticity. A certified diamond provides transparency, reassurance, and peace of mind.
At Graff, every diamond is traceable to its source, having been procured from only known, vetted and audited sources and responsibly mined in accordance with the Kimberley Process – ensuring each stone's ethical, conflict-free provenance is diligently maintained. Throughout the history of the House, which spans more than 65 years, long-lasting relationships with key mines in Africa – renowned for mining significant gem-quality diamonds – have been established. In addition, Graff has been a sight holder to the Diamond Trading Company for more than two decades.
Dedicated stone experts at Graff’s global headquarters in London partner with a limited number of highly reputable suppliers and travel the globe attending diamond tenders in pursuit of the finest stones. Many of Graff’s diamonds and gemstones are inscribed with the Graff logo, using laser-engraving technology, which is invisible to the naked eye. This seal of quality is visible through a loupe (a small magnifying glass used by jewellers to measure and examine stones) and provides Graff’s clients with the assurance that these stones have passed a rigorous selection process while ensuring an unrivalled level of authenticity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Diamond certification is a document provided by a professional, independent gemological laboratory that details a diamond’s specification, including its cut, color, clarity and carat weight – typically referred to as the 4Cs.
Diamond certification ensures the quality and authenticity of a diamond and guarantees that a diamond has been independently assessed.
With worldwide recognition, the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) is considered one of the most reputable and trusted entities due to its rigorous grading standards.
In many contexts, the terms ‘diamond grading report’ and ‘diamond certificate’ are used interchangeably to refer to the document provided by a gemological lab detailing the quality and characteristics of a diamond. However, it is worth noting a subtle difference; many industry professionals prefer the term ‘diamond grading report’ as it more accurately reflects the document's role: an expert assessment of a diamond's properties. The term "certificate" might imply a guarantee or warranty – but this is not the case.
The GIA's Triple Ex grading is the most highly regarded. It stands for excellent cut, symmetry, and polish.
A true family business, Graff is unique in the world of diamonds. As custodians of some of the world’s rarest and most celebrated stones, the incredible collection of precious gems within its vaults is a testament to the expertise, experience and pioneering spirit of the House, whose reputation for diamond excellence is incomparable.