IGI vs GIA: Lab Grown, Lab Created Diamonds Explained

Introduction: The Rise of Lab Grown Diamonds

In recent years, lab grown diamonds have transformed from niche alternatives to mainstream choices for engagement rings, fine jewelry, and even investment pieces. Offering the same physical, chemical, and optical properties as mined diamonds, lab created diamonds are a sustainable and ethical alternative that doesn’t compromise on beauty or brilliance. However, with the growth in popularity comes the critical need for reliable certification—enter IGI and GIA, the two primary authorities in diamond grading. When buyers start comparing IGI vs GIA lab grown, lab created diamonds, understanding the nuances between these two grading systems becomes essential.

What Are Lab Grown, Lab Created Diamonds?

Lab grown, also known as lab created or synthetic diamonds, are cultivated in highly controlled laboratory environments using advanced technological processes such as Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD) or High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT). These methods replicate the natural diamond growing process, resulting in real diamonds that are virtually indistinguishable from their mined counterparts.

According to a 2023 report by Bain & Company, the global lab grown diamond market has seen an average annual growth of 15%, with millennials and Gen Z leading the charge for more sustainable and ethically sourced jewelry. Given this surge, accurate grading becomes paramount.

IGI vs GIA: Understanding the Institutions

What Is IGI?

The International Gemological Institute (IGI) is one of the most widely recognized labs for grading diamonds, especially lab grown ones. Established in 1975, IGI has positioned itself as a go-to for manufacturers and retailers due to its faster turnaround times and lower grading fees.

What Is GIA?

The Gemological Institute of America (GIA), founded in 1931, is considered the gold standard in diamond grading. Known for its rigorous and consistent standards, GIA has built a reputation for trust and authority in the gemstone world. Historically, GIA was slow to accept lab grown diamonds, but as of recent years, it now provides grading reports for them, albeit with notable differences compared to its natural diamond reports.

Grading Criteria: IGI vs GIA Lab Grown, Lab Created Diamonds

The main criteria both IGI and GIA use to grade diamonds are the 4Cs—Cut, Color, Clarity, and Carat weight. However, there are subtle yet significant differences in how they apply these standards, particularly for lab grown stones.

Color and Clarity Standards

IGI tends to be slightly more lenient in its color and clarity grading for lab grown diamonds. For instance, a diamond graded as VS1 by IGI might be considered VS2 by GIA. This doesn’t mean IGI is inaccurate; it’s more a matter of grading philosophy. Retailers often prefer IGI for this reason, as slightly better grades can be more appealing to consumers.

Cut Grading

Both labs offer similar standards when it comes to cut, which is arguably the most important aspect affecting a diamond’s brilliance. However, GIA’s strict cut grading and its emphasis on proportions and light performance often make it more trusted by professionals.

Certification Reports

One of the most noticeable differences is in the certification report itself. GIA lab grown diamond reports are digital-only and marked distinctly with the phrase “Laboratory-Grown Diamond,” while IGI offers both digital and printed certificates. This difference is particularly important to buyers who value traditional documentation.

Consumer Trust and Industry Perception

Many buyers ask, “Which one is more trusted: IGI or GIA?” The answer often depends on the context. In the world of natural diamonds, GIA is typically favored. However, for lab grown diamonds, IGI dominates the market because it was among the first to grade them and has built a robust infrastructure around it.

Still, some high-end buyers and traditionalists prefer GIA certification for its perceived prestige and rigor. In a case study by Rapaport Group in 2022, 68% of consumers surveyed felt more confident purchasing a diamond certified by GIA, even if it was lab created. However, the same study noted that IGI-certified diamonds were more readily available and often came at a slightly better price-to-quality ratio.

Pricing and Market Impact

The differences in certification also influence pricing. On average, IGI certified lab grown diamonds are priced slightly lower than GIA certified ones of similar specifications. This is partly due to the perception of GIA’s stricter grading and partly because GIA-certified lab diamonds are less common in the market.

Retailers such as Brilliant Earth, James Allen, and Clean Origin offer both IGI and GIA lab grown diamonds. A quick comparison on these platforms will show that a 1-carat IGI certified diamond may be $100–$300 cheaper than its GIA counterpart with equivalent grades. However, these savings must be weighed against the buyer’s preference for certification trust and long-term value.

Resale and Investment Considerations

While lab grown diamonds are not traditionally seen as investment-grade assets, certification can still impact resale value. GIA-certified lab grown diamonds may hold slightly more value due to their broader acceptance and consumer trust. That said, resale prices for lab created diamonds are generally lower than natural diamonds, regardless of certification.

Final Verdict: IGI vs GIA Lab Grown, Lab Created Diamonds

So, what’s the best option when it comes to IGI vs GIA lab grown, lab created diamonds? It ultimately depends on your priorities. If you’re looking for value, accessibility, and a wide selection, IGI-certified diamonds are a fantastic choice. They offer reliable grading, quicker turnaround, and competitive pricing. On the other hand, if you’re someone who values stringent grading practices, a history of excellence, and prestige, GIA-certified lab grown diamonds might be worth the premium.

As lab grown diamonds continue to evolve in quality and popularity, both IGI and GIA are adapting to meet consumer demands. Whichever certification you choose, make sure you’re buying from a reputable retailer and that the diamond comes with a proper grading report.

Conclusion

The IGI vs GIA lab grown, lab created diamonds debate reflects the growing pains of an evolving industry. Both institutions offer credible grading for lab created gems, but they serve slightly different market segments and consumer needs. As buyers become more educated and environmentally conscious, the role of certification will only grow in importance. Whether you’re planning to pop the question or simply invest in a beautiful piece of jewelry, understanding your diamond’s certification is a critical part of the journey.

And remember—just like with mined diamonds, brilliance, fire, and sparkle don’t lie in the paper alone. Look beyond the certificate and choose the diamond that truly speaks to you.