In today’s rapidly evolving diamond industry, understanding certification is just as important as understanding the gem itself. For anyone shopping for lab created diamonds, two names frequently come up: IGI and GIA. If you’ve been comparing certificates and quality assurance documents, you’ve likely encountered the debate of igi vs gia lab grown diamonds. While both institutions are globally recognized and trusted, they differ in approach, grading style, and market perception—especially when it comes to lab grown diamonds.
This article will guide you through the differences, similarities, and significance of these two certification giants, helping you make an informed and confident decision on your diamond purchase.
Table of Contents
What Are Lab Created Diamonds?
Before diving into the IGI vs GIA comparison, let’s quickly clarify what lab created diamonds actually are.
Lab created diamonds, also called synthetic or man-made diamonds, are grown in laboratories using either High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT) or Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD) methods. These diamonds are physically, chemically, and optically identical to mined diamonds. They sparkle the same, last just as long, and can be cut into all the same shapes and styles.
The key difference? Origin. Lab diamonds are ethically produced and more sustainable, often costing 30–50% less than their mined counterparts.
Who Are IGI and GIA?
IGI – International Gemological Institute
The International Gemological Institute (IGI) is a well-known diamond grading authority, particularly dominant in the lab grown diamond space. IGI has been grading lab created stones longer than GIA and is often the go-to choice for major retailers selling lab grown jewellery.
GIA – Gemological Institute of America
The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) is widely considered the gold standard in diamond grading for mined diamonds. It was more hesitant in embracing lab created diamonds early on, but has since adjusted to market demand by offering grading services for lab grown stones.
IGI vs GIA Lab Grown: Key Differences
When choosing between IGI vs GIA lab grown certification, consider the following distinctions:
1. History with Lab Diamonds
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IGI has certified lab grown diamonds since the early 2000s and is well-versed in their unique attributes.
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GIA initially resisted certifying lab diamonds but entered the space more recently. Older GIA lab diamond reports may contain vague terminology like “synthetic,” which is no longer standard.
2. Grading Terminology
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IGI uses the same terminology for lab grown diamonds as it does for natural ones—terms like “Excellent,” “VS1,” “F color,” etc.
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GIA now also uses standard terminology, but past reports used less consumer-friendly language that downplayed the diamond’s attributes.
3. Report Format
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IGI issues full grading reports that resemble those of natural diamonds.
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GIA initially issued “lab-grown diamond reports” with more limited data but has since adopted a more thorough approach in response to consumer demand.
4. Market Perception
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IGI is trusted in the lab diamond market and widely accepted by top retailers.
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GIA still holds the upper hand in terms of reputation, particularly among traditional buyers and for resale value—even though its lab diamond reports are newer to the market.
Which Certification Is Better?
There’s no universal answer to this question—it depends on your priorities.
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Choose IGI if you want a lab diamond with a comprehensive, clear report and wide availability.
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Choose GIA if you’re buying a higher-value stone and want the prestige of GIA attached to your purchase, even if the stone is lab grown.
Both are reputable, and both apply strict grading standards. However, IGI is often more consistent in its lab diamond evaluations simply because it has more experience in this space.
How Grading Affects Pricing
Certifications from IGI and GIA can impact price points for lab created diamonds. GIA-certified lab diamonds tend to carry a small premium, due more to GIA’s brand recognition than superior quality. IGI diamonds may offer more variety and slightly better prices but are equally reliable in most cases.
For example:
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A 1.5-carat, VS1, G color lab diamond with IGI certification might cost around $3,500.
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The same specs with GIA certification might fetch $3,800–$4,000.
It’s important to weigh the small price difference against the value you place on certification branding and resale potential.
Why Certification Matters in Lab Created Diamonds
Certification is your guarantee that what you’re buying is real, correctly graded, and worth the investment. With lab created diamonds, this becomes even more important due to industry variations in quality control and terminology.
A certified diamond report confirms:
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Authenticity (not a simulant like cubic zirconia or moissanite)
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Grading consistency
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Laser inscription matching the certificate number
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Full transparency on origin and treatment
Always insist on a certificate from a reputable lab—preferably IGI or GIA—when buying a lab created diamond.
Should You Avoid Other Certifiers?
Other certification labs exist, but few hold the same global credibility as IGI or GIA. Labs like EGL or HRD may grade more leniently, causing discrepancies in quality and pricing.
For resale, insurance, or resale upgrades, diamonds certified by IGI or GIA are more widely accepted. This is particularly crucial for engagement rings or high-ticket items where long-term value matters.
Future Trends: GIA Closing the Gap?
As lab created diamonds continue to rise in popularity, GIA is making strategic shifts to remain competitive. Its more recent lab grown diamond reports are far more aligned with those of IGI, and the institute has begun training more gemologists in lab diamond grading.
While IGI remains the leader in volume and accessibility, GIA is catching up, especially among premium buyers who value traditional status.
Final Thoughts: Which Is Right for You?
Whether you’re buying an engagement ring, pendant, or tennis bracelet, choosing between IGI vs GIA lab grown comes down to preference and intended use. IGI is ideal for shoppers who want variety and solid grading at a better price. GIA, on the other hand, offers prestige and traditional trustworthiness—albeit often at a slight premium.
Both are top-tier when it comes to certifying lab created diamonds, and you can feel confident purchasing a stone graded by either.
Conclusion
The certification landscape for lab created diamonds is evolving, and knowing where igi vs gia lab grown diamonds stand can help you make a smarter, more secure purchase. In this growing industry, clarity, transparency, and knowledge are your best allies. Whether you lean toward IGI’s accessibility or GIA’s legacy, you’re making a choice that reflects both quality and responsibility in modern jewellery.