What's The Difference Between GIA and EGL Grading Reports?
Many customers encounter different grading reports and find it puzzling as to what is the difference between GIA, EGL and other diamond certifications. It becomes an even more important question when you notice a significant price discrepancy between two diamonds of the same carat weight, graded the same cut, color, and clarity. An understanding as to what a grading report is can help shed some light on this mystery.
Generally speaking a grading report is an expert opinion given by a gemological laboratory. GIA is the Gemological Institute of America - a none profit organization who developed the diamond grading system that is in use today. The diamond grading system is based on the 4C's: carat, cut, color, and clarity. GIA is considered the "authority on diamonds" and the most reputable laboratory in the world. Since GIA's establishment many other "for profit" organizations have emerged using GIA's grading system, but with different grading standards. This is what makes it difficult for customers to comparison shop because it is not an even grading system.
A diamond graded J color according to GIA might get an H grade or better when graded according to EGL's standards. At the same time a diamond graded VS1 clarity according to EGL might actually get a SI1 grade or lower according to GIA. Some diamond dealers choose to submit their diamonds to EGL laboratories to achieve a better grading report because GIA has the strictest standards, whereas EGL and other labs are much more lenient (relative to GIA).
If you want to compare an EGL graded diamond to an GIA graded diamond, drop the EGL diamond grade by one grade for cut, and two grades for color and clarity. If you find that even with these adjustments the EGL diamond you are considering still competes well in price against the GIA graded diamond, than it is probably a good buy. This technique is not an exact science and should only be used to give you a rough idea. If you want to know you have the most accurate grading report that adheres to the highest standards in the industry, choose GIA graded diamonds.
Over 95% of the diamonds carried by DreamStone.com are GIA certified diamonds. We offer a small collection of EGL graded diamonds to accommodate budget conscious consumers who want to purchase a larger diamond. When using the DreamStone interactive diamond search, you may decide to check the box "GIA Diamonds Only" to filter out the EGL diamonds. Whichever diamond you choose, our commission free diamond and jewelry consultants are happy to provide you with expert advice, simply contact us at 1-800-818-8386.
