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Precision in Grading. Confidence in Every Detail.
At Friendly Diamonds, we believe confidence begins with knowing the details. Our selection of IGI-graded loose diamonds brings together exceptional stones with the independent expertise of a globally recognized gemological institution.
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Inside The IGI Laboratory
Once a diamond enters the laboratory, it undergoes a series of examinations and evaluations before its characteristics are recorded and the report is issued.
Here’s a look at what happens along the way.
The Diamond is alloted a number
The stone is logged, separated from its submission paperwork, and assigned an identifier. It moves through the laboratory as a number rather than as a client's property.
The Screening Process
Before grading, IGI screens the diamond to determine whether it is laboratory-grown, natural, or a simulant, identifies the growth method, and checks for any post-growth treatments.
The Grading Process
After thorough screening, the diamond undergoes a grading process where its 4Cs are carefully assessed.
Inscribing The Diamond
IGI inscribes the report number onto the diamond's girdle using its LaserScribe system. The inscription is microscopic, invisible in normal wear, and readable under magnification.
Report and verification
Findings are issued as an IGI Laboratory Grown Diamond Report. Any report number can be checked against IGI's online verification tool.
Carat weight is evaluated with a precision scale, captured accurately to four decimal places.
Color is assessed by multiple gemologists individually under a standardized, controlled viewing environment.
Clarity is determined by examining internal and external characteristics under 10x magnification.
Cut is assessed based on proportions, symmetry, polish, and light performance, including brightness, fire, scintillation, and pattern.
The stated operating principles are objectivity, accuracy, consistency, and impartiality, which, in a laboratory context, means the same stone should receive the same grade regardless of who grades it or when.
From Antwerp To The World
IGI was founded in Antwerp, Belgium, in 1975, a city that has been at the heart of the global diamond trade for centuries. Being founded in Antwerp placed IGI at the centre of the industry from the very beginning.
The laboratory was among the first to grade laboratory-grown diamonds and develop dedicated expertise in their identification. Today, IGI has grown into a global network of 37 laboratories across 10 countries, with ISO 17025 accreditation for laboratory-grown diamond grading.
Understanding Your Report
How To Read an IGI Report?
An IGI report gives you a detailed record of a diamond’s characteristics and how it was evaluated. Understanding the key sections helps you see exactly what you’re buying and compare diamonds with confidence.
Report number
Unique to this diamond. You can verify it through IGI's online report-checking service.
Shape and cutting style
Identifies the diamond’s outline and facet arrangement.
Carat weight, colour grade, clarity grade
Key characteristics assessed by IGI.
Cut, polish and symmetry
Describe the quality of the diamond’s cutting and finish.
Fluorescence
Indicates how the diamond reacts to long-wave ultraviolet light.
Clarity characteristics
Identify the inclusions and blemishes observed during grading.
IGI & GIA: What’s The Difference?
| IGI | GIA | |
|---|---|---|
| Founded | 1975, Antwerp | 1931, Los Angeles |
| Structure | Independent grading organisation | Nonprofit, public-benefit institute |
| Known for | Grading laboratory-grown diamonds at scale since 2005 | Creating the 4Cs and the D-to-Z and FL-to-I3 scales now used industry-wide |
| Lab-grown | Full grading report with ISO 17025 accreditation for laboratory-grown work | Reporting approach has moved toward descriptive categories - verify current position |
| Accreditation | ISO/IEC 17025 accredited for laboratory-grown diamond grading | Long-established research and grading authority |
| Inscription | LaserScribe girdle inscription linking stone to report | Laser inscription available |
| Verification | Online verification tool | Online report database |
Both are established, independent and widely recognised. They are not ranked here, and no comparison of grading strictness is offered; such claims are contested and unnecessary. What matters to a buyer is that the report is independent, the process is documented, and the number can be verified. Both satisfy that.
Hear from Our Diamond Experts
Certified for Confidence. Transparent by Choice.
At Friendly Diamonds, we believe buying diamond jewelry should feel clear and confident. That’s why every Friendly Diamonds diamond comes with certification, with its quality and key characteristics transparently documented by a globally recognized independent gemological laboratory.
IGI Certified Diamonds FAQs
What does IGI-certified mean?
Is an IGI-certified lab-grown diamond a real diamond?
Is IGI grading good for lab-grown diamonds?
Which is better, IGI or GIA, for lab-grown diamonds?
What details are present in an IGI report?
How to check the authenticity of an IGI certificate?
Are there any inscriptions on IGI-certified diamonds?
Which IGI grade should I go with for an engagement ring?
Can I use an IGI-certified diamond to build a custom ring?
Why buy Friendly Diamonds IGI-certified diamonds?
Are IGI-certified lab-grown diamonds reliable?
What does an IGI diamond certificate include?
How can I verify an IGI diamond certificate?
What is the difference between IGI and other diamond grading laboratories?