Connect with us

Press Releases

IGI Uncovers Largest Misrepresented Lab-Grown Diamond

International grading authority swiftly catches 6.18 carat stone intended to resemble previously certified natural diamond.

mm

Published

on

IGI Uncovers Largest Misrepresented Lab-Grown Diamond(PRESS RELEASE) Thailand — The International Gemological Institute (IGI), the world’s largest independent gemological laboratory, recently analyzed and graded a 6.18 carat round brilliant-cut, loose stone and established it was a lab-grown diamond at its Thailand location. The stone was submitted for verification purposes, and came with a GIA certificate that stated it was a natural diamond, D color, flawless clarity and triple excellent cut, reinforcing the growing importance of secondary review from gemological institutes.

“This is the largest lab-grown diamond ever certified by a leading gemological laboratory, where the sole purpose was to pass off a lab-grown stone as natural,” said IGI Thailand and Hong Kong Managing Director Bob Van Es. “At IGI, we have seen a huge increase in double verification demand, which means before going for a major purchase, consumers like to receive confirmation that the stone matches the original report.”

While qualities of the stone closely corresponded to the GIA report, IGI’s expert gemologists quickly ascertained — using state-of-the-art detection equipment — that the diamond was lab-grown and was cut and polished specifically to match the data on the GIA report with meticulous precision previously never seen. To further the deception, the stone was inscribed with a fake laser number, which has become a practice for persons outside of the industry to purposely and easily mislead consumers.

“A second opinion ensures the integrity of diamonds through detailed analysis, which is an extra, necessary buffer that protects consumers from purchasing misrepresented gemstones,” said IGI CEO Roland Lorie. “As fraud becomes more apparent, IGI continues to demonstrate its expertise in identifying this malpractice and serving as the end authority for consumers to trust that Institute-certified jewelry is accurately graded and analyzed.”

Without certification, consumers are at risk of purchasing gemstones that are not consistent with their general descriptions. IGI is proud to provide consumers the fifth “C,” — confidence. The Institute’s long-standing reputation of world-class verification and reporting allows fine jewelry shoppers to have confidence in the quality and value of their purchase.

To learn more about IGI and the Institute’s offerings, visit www.igi.org and gemblog.igi.org.

Advertisement

Advertisement

SPONSORED VIDEO

Family Legacy, New Chapter: How Wilkerson Turns 89 Years of History Into Future Success

After 89 years of serving the Albany community, Harold Finkle Your Jeweler faced a pivotal decision. For third-generation owner Justin Finkle, the demanding hours of running a small business were taking precious time away from his young family. "After 23 years, I decided this was the time for me," Finkle explains. But closing a business with nearly nine decades of inventory and customer relationships isn't something easily managed alone. Wilkerson's comprehensive approach transformed this challenging transition into a remarkable success story. Their strategic planning handled everything from advertising and social media to inventory management and staffing — elements that would overwhelm most jewelers attempting to navigate a closing sale independently. The results speak volumes. "Wilkerson gave us three different tiers of potential goals," Finkle notes. "We've reached that third tier, that highest goal already, and we still have two weeks left of the sale." The partnership didn't just meet financial objectives—it exceeded them ahead of schedule.

Promoted Headlines

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

Subscribe


BULLETINS

INSTORE helps you become a better jeweler
with the biggest daily news headlines and useful tips.
(Mailed 5x per week.)

Latest Comments

Most Popular