The standard certification for diamonds till now is GIA (Gemological Institute of America). Also, IGI (International Gemological Institute) is considered a reliable certification for diamonds, but it has been established after a long time of GIA. Therefore, though you will find IGI grading reports in Europe, Asia, and other countries, GIA is common in America.
Both the certifications grade diamonds in separate ways that made them spectacular.
One of the most common GIA vs IGI is GIA is quite strict in grading diamonds, where IGI is flexible.
The lower color range in diamonds from J and below doesn’t impact much of IGI and GIA grading differences. It’s better to count the 1st-grade diamonds from D to I color range for the GIA and IGI certifications’ differences. The same goes for the clarity inconsistency in the 1st grade (D-F color) for GIA and IGI diamond differences.
It’s suggested to ask the detailed clarity about IGI diamonds’ SI1 and SI2 grades. They need identification to become eye-clean. Since gemologists grade IGIA or GIA after cross-examinations, the results can be strict for both certifications. However, IGI doesn’t hold the same consistency as GIA does for grading diamonds.
Therefore, IGI grading might not be an excellent choice for certifying a diamond. However, it can grade higher than the GIA report instead. The grading report of igi vs gia depends on the gemologists and the jeweler you pick in the first place.
It’s necessary to get the grading report an authentic one because if the report says your diamond is of high clarity, it will get the highest value from the buyer. And that’s how certification works for diamonds.
If you are concerned about getting a legit certification from an accredited institution, go for GIA to get a solid and more reliable certificate. However, take an expert’s suggestion if you are not familiar with the certification in the diamond. He can tell which institution can be a reliable option for you.
Moreover, IGI and GIA are both two of the most reliable certifications for diamonds.