What is difference between a diamond lab report and an appraisal?
An appraisal indicates the replacement value in case of loss, damage or theft. It's what insurance companies usually require for insuring your jewelry.
A lab report is a detailed analysis of a diamond based on the application of a variety of different of techniques and sophisticated equipment. When completed, it serves as a proof of a diamond's identity.
The laboratories we recommend are:
- GIA (Gemological Institute of America)
- AGSL (American Gem Society Laboratories)
- EGL (European Gemological Laboratories)
What kind of information is in a lab report?
- The report number that is unique to the diamond
- The shape of the diamond
- The carat weight of the diamond
- The color of the diamond
- The clarity of the diamond
- The length, width and depth of the diamond
- The quality of the diamond's polish and symmetry
- The total depth and table percentage of the diamond
- A description of the girdle
- A description of the culet
- The presence or absence of fluorescence in the diamond
- A plotted picture of your diamonds inclusions and blemishes
If you buy a diamond without a lab report, the evaluation of the diamond’s quality may be performed by someone who is untrained. Furthermore, the person is likely directly or indirectly involved in the sale of the diamond for a profit. Therefore, the person is likely to be biased and is often overly optimistic.
When purchasing a diamond with a lab report, you have a tangible, legal and objective third-party assurance as to the quality of the diamond. Lab reports are the only way you can effectively compare a particular diamond with another.
A lab report is not subjective to the market. The laboratories strictly grade diamonds; they do not buy or sell. All diamonds that are sent to the labs are sent loose. Laboratories will not grade a mounted stone. This ensures that your description of the diamond is 100% accurate.
The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) sets all diamond standards and grading scales for all the other labs in the world. At Alberta Diamond Exchange, our brokers have all taken diamond courses through GIA to help pass on the knowledge to our customers.
An added bonus to sending your loose diamond to a lab is "laser inscription." A laboratory can put an ID #, picture or saying of your choice on the girdle of your diamond. This does not affect your diamond in any way and it's a very easy way to identify your diamond. Ask your broker today about a laser inscribed diamond.
A lab report = peace of mind.