AGS
This is the American Gem Society Laboratories. This independent lab was founded in 1996. This lab provides the consumer with a quality document, which follows the highest standards set by the American Gem Society.
EGL – US ONLY
This is the European Gemological Laboratories. However, EGL USA in no way is affiliated with any EGL labs outside of North America. The lab is one of the largest and oldest independent gemological institutes. This was originally part of an international network, started in Europe in 1974. In 1977, in the heart of NY's jewelry district, EGL USA opened for the first time. In 1986, EGL USA became independent from any other EGL labs outside of North America. Each EGL certificate assures its customer of EGL USA Group origin, by stating on the certificate, "A member of the EGL USA Group".
AGA
Accredited Gem Appraisers, is an independent appraisal service, and gem certification lab, founded in the mid 1950's. Following color and clarity standards set by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), AGA provides high quality certificates in gem identification, and is the only lab that extends a guarantee in report accuracy to all customers.
GIA
The Gemological Institute of America (GIA), was founded in 1931 by Roger Shipley as a non-profit organization that upholds the highest standards for grading diamonds and other precious gems. The GIA has one of the most respected and well-regarded gemological laboratories in the world. GIA was responsible for developing and standardizing the diamond grading system that is used today by nearly all other gem labs. In the late 1930’s, Shipley created the famous 4 C’s. This is the most popular means of explaining diamond quality to the public still today. In 1953, GIA developed the current international grading system. The D-Z color scale and Flawless- I3 clarity scale are used by virtually every professional jeweler in the world. In 1949, The GIA Gem Trade Laboratory was established in NYC. In 1955, the lab issued its first diamond grading reports, upholding the industry to a new high standard. From this point on, it became a standard practice and recommendation that each and every diamond should come with a certificate from an accredited gem lab. GIA since this point on has held the standard for gem grading.
HRD
HRD certificates are supplied by the Antwerp World Diamond Center. Certificates are issued for loose, polished diamonds. The HRD Certificate provides its customer with a description of the personality of the stone based on international standards. HRD Diamond certificates guarantee that the stone examined is a real diamond, and provides the customer with a full quality description. This description includes the 4 C's, based on GIA standards.
IGI
International Gemological Institute (IGI) reports have been internationally recognized since 1975. IGI has a wide variety of services, including but not limited to; Diamond and colored stone certificates, gem and jewelry appraisal reports, diamond and colored stone courses, gem and jewelry seminars, and laser inscription and table branding. The International Gemological Institute prides itself in its "reputation for integrity, accuracy and reliability."
