Brilliance

GIA vs. EGL

Here at Brilliance, we want each customer to make an informed decision when choosing a certified diamond so that they will be completely satisfied with their purchase. Although a benefit of purchasing a certified diamond is that a consumer can compare diamonds based on the Four Cs and other factors, it is important to note that the grading standards of the various laboratories vary. This variation results in a discrepancy in the quality of diamonds graded in different laboratories, even when they are graded the same color, clarity, or cut.

Of the five laboratories that certify the loose diamonds we offer at Brilliance, the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) and the European Gemological Laboratory (EGL) are by far the most popular. When deciding which certification to go with, it is important to understand the vital differences between the grading techniques of the two laboratories.

First some history…

The GIA was established in 1931 and is considered worldwide as the leading authority in gemology. Their staff of 1,400 employees includes scientists, certified diamond graders, and educators. They currently have locations in all major diamond cities in the world, including Carlsbad, New York, Moscow, Florence, Antwerp, Tel Aviv, Mumbai, Gaborone, Johannesburg, Beijing, Hong Kong, Seoul, Tokyo, Osaka, Taipei, and Bangkok. GIA is credited with standardizing the grading industry by introducing the Four Cs and other widely used grading techniques. They offer diamond grading and laser inscription services, as well as a wide range of educational services for diamond professionals and consumers.

Founded in Europe in 1974, the EGL International and the EGL USA laboratories employ over 1,100 scientists, diamond graders and educators. Their EGL International locations are found in Antwerp, London, Paris, Mumbai, Johannesburg, Hong Kong, Seoul, and Tel Aviv. Their locations in New York, Los Angeles, Vancouver, and Toronto are considered part of EGL USA. The EGL is known for introducing grading techniques for diamonds weighing less than one carat and for establishing the “SI3” rating for diamond clarity.

Comparing diamonds of the “same” quality

In general, Brilliance suggests choosing a GIA certified diamond over an EGL certified diamond. Loose diamonds GIA certified are graded using strict standards that are consistent among the various GIA locations. Each GIA diamond is carefully evaluated by at least four expert gemologists who are chosen at random to guarantee an unbiased evaluation. The EGL’s grading standards are more lenient and vary among the EGL locations, with EGL USA locations generally grading on a slightly stricter scale than its International counterpart. As a general rule, an EGL certified diamond will compare equally in quality to a GIA certified diamond that is graded two color grades and one clarity grade lower. For example, an EGL diamond graded G in color and VS2 in clarity is comparable to a GIA diamond graded I in color and SI1 in clarity. As a result, GIA certified diamonds are considered more valuable and provide the consumer with more confidence in the product they are purchasing.

However, there is a benefit to choosing an EGL certified diamond. Due to the discrepancy in the grading standards used, an EGL diamond graded the same color and clarity as a GIA diamond will be less expensive. This is seen as an advantage to those who consider the ratings stated on the certificate a priority when choosing their diamond. If you are interested in purchasing an EGL certified diamond and would like to have an expert evaluate it, contact a Brilliance diamond expert at 866-737-0754.

Diamond Search

Whether it be EGL or GIA certified, Brilliance has thousands of loose diamonds to choose from. Start your online diamond search now to find the perfect diamond.

Categories: Brilliance, Diamonds, Education

Pearl Gemstone Feature – June Birthstone

An elegant summer accessory, the pearl is the modern birthstone for the month of June. Considered a symbol of modesty and purity, the pristine gemstone is also said to promote long and successful marriages, and is often given as a gift for the 1^st, 3^rd, 12^th, and 30^th wedding anniversaries.

According to an old Indian legend, pearls were formed from dew drops that fell from the heavens into the ocean. Nature’s only organic gem, the pearl is actually derived from the husks of mollusks and oysters. Most are found in the Persian Gulf, on the coast of Japan, in Northern Australia, and off the coast of California.

While the rarest and most precious pearls are pure white, they also occur naturally in a myriad of other shades. Freshwater pearls can be found in cream, pink, yellow, lilac, silver, and gold, and Tahitian pearls are often black. Many others are dyed to produce more variety. When selecting a pearl color, consider the wearer’s skin tone and style preference.

The quality of a pearl is judged by evaluating several different factors:

Luster: This characteristic refers to the intensity of light that is reflected from the surface of the pearl, just as “fire” is emitted from a diamond. Pearls with a higher luster will have a glossier, mirror-like surface, while lower-luster pearls will take on a more opaque matte appearance.

Size: As a general rule, larger pearls have a higher market value because they are cultivated longer in the mollusk. Most freshwater pearls range from 3mm to 12mm in diameter, while Tahitian pearls can measure in at 18mm or larger.

Shape: While the rarest and most valuable pearls are perfectly round, most natural stones are found in near-round, button, oval, drop, or baroque shapes.

Surface:Unmarked pearls with no blemishes or inclusions are extremely rare and command the highest prices. The more marks on a pearl’s surface, the less its value. When evaluating a natural pearl, carefully examine its surface for quality, keeping in mind that small blemishes attest to its natural formation.

Available at Brilliance, classic pearl jewelry includes pearl studs, pearl necklaces, pearl bracelets, and solitaire pearl pendants. These pieces can be worn with casual or formal attire and are much desired gifts. For those seeking a light, versatile piece to add to their fine jewelry collection, the June birthstone is an ideal choice.

Categories: Education, Gems, Jewelry