International grading authority swiftly catches 6.18 carat stone intended to resemble previously certified natural diamond
Thailand (June 9, 2021) — The International Gemological Institute (IGI), the world’s largest independent gemological laboratory, recently analyzed and graded a 6.18 carat round brilliant-cut, loose stone and established it was a lab-grown diamond at its Thailand location. The stone was submitted for verification purposes. It came with a GIA certificate stating it was a natural diamond, D color, flawless clarity and triple excellent cut. This finding reinforces the growing importance of secondary review from gemological institutes.
“This is the largest lab-grown diamond ever certified by a leading gemological laboratory, where the sole purpose was to pass off a lab-grown stone as natural,” said IGI Thailand and Hong Kong Managing Director Bob Van Es. “At IGI, we have seen a huge increase in double verification demand. This means before going for a major purchase, consumers like to receive confirmation that the stone matches the original report.”
While qualities of the stone closely corresponded to the GIA report, IGI’s expert gemologists quickly ascertained — using state-of-the-art detection equipment — that the diamond was lab-grown. It was cut and polished specifically to match the data on the GIA report with meticulous precision previously never seen. To further the deception, a fake laser number was inscribed on the stone. This has become a practice for persons outside of the industry to purposely and easily mislead consumers.
“A second opinion ensures the integrity of diamonds through detailed analysis, which is an extra, necessary buffer that protects consumers from purchasing misrepresented gemstones,” said IGI CEO Roland Lorie. “As fraud becomes more apparent, IGI continues to demonstrate its expertise in identifying this malpractice and serving as the end authority for consumers to trust that the grade and analysis of Institute-certified jewelry is accurate.”
Buying Diamonds with Confidence
Without certification, consumers are at risk of purchasing gemstones that are not consistent with their general descriptions. IGI is proud to provide consumers the fifth “C,” — confidence. The Institute’s world-class reputation allows shoppers to have confidence in the quality and value of their purchase.
To learn more about IGI and the Institute’s offerings, please visit IGI.
About IGI
IGI has 20 laboratories in all major diamond and jewelry centers around the world, as well as 14 education facilities. For 45 years, IGI has provided the fine jewelry community and consumers with a broad range of services. This includes independent diamond grading reports, colored stone reports, identification and appraisal reports, diamond authentication and attestation of origin, laser inscription services, as well as the issuing of the traditional jewelry identification report. Regardless of location or marketplace, an IGI Laboratory Report is the common language of trust and confidence.
