CERTIFICATES & REPORTS

When purchasing a fancy colored diamond, it is essential that the stone have an origin-of-color report from the GIA or one of the other qualified gemological laboratories.  This report will determine whether or not the diamonds color is natural.  The report will also indicate the diamond's color grade. The primary facilities used by Colored Diamond Exchange for grading and certification are the GIA and the HRD.

GIA

The GIA has built a reputation as the benchmark for diamond grading reports for more than 70 years. Their educational facilities are considered the most respected in the gemstone industry. The GIA offers a number of extensive courses on diamond grading, appraising and jewelry design. They are recognized for their impartial service and as one of the principal authorities in gemology. The GIA has developed advanced equipment to detect treated diamonds and has been critical in developing new technology for advancing the science of cutting.

HRD

The Diamond High Council (HRD), a non-profit organization, is the official representative of the Belgium diamond industry. It was founded in 1973 in order to co-ordinate activities on behalf of the diamond business. They have established a research program, aimed at fundamental research for supporting consumer confidence and applied research for supporting the Belgian Industry. They are one of the most respected labs in the world when it comes to diamond grading.

Very few diamonds have a color different from the standard colorless diamond. The most beautiful among these are called fancy colored diamonds. On the HRD Diamond Color Certificate, attention is paid to the specific characteristics that determine the value of color diamonds, such as the color description, the color origin and the luminescence. Obviously, it is especially important whether the diamond under examination is a natural fancy color diamond or a treated diamond.