GIA certification for ACA diamonds

[marrduk24]

I know there are many threads on GIA vs AGS grading standards and the consensus seems to be that they are pretty comparable, unless the stone was a borderline stone to begin with.

I am looking at buying a pair of I/ VS2 / 2 carat each ACA stones. I am wondering if anyone has gone through the experience of getting GIA certification for their diamonds. It probably would end up costing me a few hundred dollars, but feels like for peace of mind that’s worth it. Just want to hear experiences of others who bought ACA stones. It doesn’t seem like many people do that here, and this is a community of the most savvy diamond buyers. That would imply it’s not a concern that many people share.

 

[lovedogs]

I don't think many people bother getting stones double certified because as you said both labs are extremely trustworthy.

 

[flyingpig]

Dual certification is an overkill in general.

WF provides magnified images and videos so that you can see inclusions for yourself.
WF provides color comparison with other diamonds.
There is no reason for GIA certification for proportions and carat weight. Additionally, WF provides Sarin report as well.
If you happened to find out that your diamond is a low "I" after the return period, you can always upgrade.

Then, there is an option of getting the diamond appraised, which should be less hassle and cheaper. Just make sure you find a really really good appraiser.

With all of the above considered, if you want it dual certified, go for it. Please note that the diamond must be unmounted, meaning you either need to ship it back to WF for mounting (added cost), or find another good jeweller.

I guess there are a few exceptions such as museum quality diamonds, potential high priced auction items, colored diamonds, rare D/FL/no fluo diamonds. In those cases, I do want the GIA report.

 

[denverappraiser]

For a fee, WF may be able to do it for you. Dealers don't get a discount from GIA but they're very familiar with the shipping and insurance process and they may be able to ship them with other stones. As mentioned above, if you're going to do this you'll want to do it before they're set.

 

[marrduk24]

I did speak to them and they can ship it to GIA lab. But between return shipping and GIA fee, that’s $660 of additional expense. It’s no cheaper to get it shipped to an appraiser. Most of NY appraisers charge $250-$300.

Their customer service is truly worth their reputation. So they are going to make a video of these stones next to GIA H and I color stones to address my doubts. I will go from there.

 

[kenny]

I agree that having GIA grade diamonds that already have grading reports from AGS is a complete waste of your time and money.
I would get zero additional "peace of mind".
The only thing I would get is $660 less in my wallet.
Either lab is fine.

But when it comes to grading the cut (cut translates to how good the light performance is) I respect AGS's cut standards much more than I trust those of GIA.
Some of the diamonds that GIA cut grades as EXCELLENT are really not that excellent.
AGS has higher standards on cut.

BTW, about that "certification" term.
Gem grading labs do not 'certify' anything.
Certifying involves considerable legal baggage that no reputable lab will take on.
Legitimate gem labs, line GIA and AGS, grade gem parameters, subject to the disclaimers in the fine print on the back of their reports.

Unfortunately many customers and retailers incorrectly embrace the term "certify" and "certificate".
Actually "certification" is a ubiquitous lie in diamond retailing.

I think if you use the term "grading report" instead of certification pros and those in the know will think more highly of you.

 

[CareBear]

WF usually carry quite a few 2ct I VS2 stones in their inventory. Have them put a few in a line-up and pick the whitest ones. There is no need to get them GIA certified.