What is the IGI?
The IGI (International Gemological Institute) is an independent organization founded in 1975 in Antwerp, Belgium. It specializes in the analysis and grading of diamonds, colored stones, and finished jewelry. Through its international network of laboratories, the IGI issues reports that document the main characteristics of stones, whether they are natural diamonds or lab-grown diamonds.
Why is the IGI a benchmark in gemology?
IGI has developed in several major international diamond centers, and its laboratories hold ISO accreditations for the assessment of natural and lab-grown diamonds. The institute also took an early interest in lab-grown diamonds and possesses extensive experience in their analysis. Its reports are notably used to confirm a diamond’s origin and document its main gemological characteristics.
This distinction of origin is important, as a lab-grown diamond possesses the same chemical, physical, and optical properties as a natural diamond. What changes is its method of formation, which explains why a lab-grown diamond is a real diamond.
What information is found on an IGI certificate?
An IGI appraisal certificate documents the main characteristics of a diamond. Depending on the type of report, it may include:
- The 4Cs: carat weight, color, clarity, and, depending on the shape of the diamond, the cut quality.
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Dimensions and proportions: the diamond's shape, its measurements, as well as information on its proportions, polish, and symmetry.
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Clarity characteristics: some reports include a diagram showing the location of inclusions and other features observed in the stone.
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Diamond origin: the report indicates whether the diamond is natural or lab-grown and may also mention certain treatments or growth processes if identified.
- Report number: this allows you to retrieve a digital copy of the report on the IGI website. For lab-grown diamonds graded by the IGI, a laser inscription identifying their origin is also applied to the girdle of the stone.
Like a GIA certificate, an IGI certificate is primarily a grading report: it describes the gemological characteristics of the stone but does not in itself constitute an appraisal of its monetary value.
Our jewellers' opinion
For a significant center stone, such as the one in an engagement ring, an IGI certificate is a good starting point. It allows you to know the characteristics of the diamond and compare stones more easily. But at Flamme en rose, we like to remind you that a diamond is more than just its certificate. Two stones with very similar grades can have completely different brilliance and presence once seen in person. This is why we also look at the proportions, the brilliance, the overall appearance of the stone, and, of course, your budget. The goal is to find a diamond that you truly love.
Frequently asked questions about the IGI
GIA and IGI are two recognized gemological laboratories that analyze and grade natural and lab-grown diamonds. GIA is the originator of the 4Cs, while IGI is particularly prominent in the certification of lab-grown diamonds.
No. A grading report is mainly relevant for an important center stone. Small pavé, halo, or side diamonds are generally not individually certified. A center stone can be accompanied by an IGI, GIA, or other recognized laboratory report.
Yes. An IGI certificate can be verified online using its report number in the "Verify Your Report" tool. Some reports also feature a QR code providing direct access to their digital version.