Synthetic diamonds are grown in laboratories and have essentially the same chemical composition, crystal structure and physical properties as natural diamonds. They’re real diamonds and not ‘fakes,’ but they are not the same as natural diamonds.
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The 4Cs – color, clarity, cut, and carat weight – describe a diamond’s appearance, define its quality, and greatly influence a diamond’s value. But did you know that before GIA established the 4Cs in the 1940s, there was no agreed-upon system by which diamond quality could be communicated? (more…)
Synthetic diamonds grown in a lab are virtually identical to natural diamonds, but that’s where the similarities end. In fact, there are two distinctive methods used to grow synthetic diamonds. (more…)
Adding to its educational efforts in Africa, GIA recently entered into a collaboration with the Nelson Mandela Centre of Memory to provide Mandela Day Libraries to four South African elementary schools. (more…)
In addition to setting standards for determining gem quality and conducting front-line research, GIA protects the gem-buying public by educating gem and jewelry professionals. In fact, GIA was founded more than 80 years ago as an educational institution to help jewelers accurately and ethically communicate gem information to the public. (more…)
One frequent request GIA receives is, “Can you recommend a reputable jeweler?” The jewelry-buying landscape offers so many options: buying online, through retail chains, neighborhood jewelry stores, and even independent sellers. Establishing a relationship with a jeweler can seem daunting and confusing. GIA is here to help. While it can’t recommend specific jewelers or businesses, it does offer tools and tips to help you navigate your way through choices. (more…)
Understand all the aspects of the Diamond Clarity Scale and check out this diamond clarity grading chart in the second of GIA’s 4Cs Q&A series. (more…)
Do you know how diamond color is evaluated? GIA kicks off its 4Cs Q&A series with color grading. (more…)
With the current popularity of period pieces—fueled in part by films and shows like The Great Gatsby and Downton Abbey–there is a rising interest in vintage fashion and jewelry. The Edwardian period lasted from 1900 to 1915, when England was flush with power and wealth. For the landed gentry (land owners who could live entirely off of rental income), the Edwardian Era was a period of prosperity and privilege; however, class divisions were equally stark. (more…)
GIA graduate and Las Vegas Chapter GIA Alumni Association President Jeff Mason is the in-house gemologist at the World Famous Gold & Silver Pawnshop, the shop made famous by the hit reality show Pawn Stars. (more…)