Diamond Grading Process

At IJC Worldwide, we believe that every diamond has a unique story to tell — and that story starts with trustworthy grading. A certified grading report is an expert, unbiased evaluation of a diamond’s quality (the Four C’s: cut, color, clarity, carat). By breaking down these details, our grading process ensures you know exactly what you’re buying. We handle each stone with care and transparency, so you can feel confident in its quality and value. Our independent gemologists and state-of-the-art lab collaborate at every step to provide a clear, consumer-friendly grading report.

Jewelry Reports

IJC’s Jewelry Reports certify finished pieces containing diamonds, gemstones and precious metals. Each report itemizes every mounted gem and metal in the piece. For example, a ring report will identify the center diamond (with full 4Cs grading) and any side stones or accent gems, as well as the metal type and purity. We include detailed photos of the finished item and note any inscriptions or quality stamps. Our jewelry reports follow best practices: “issued for pieces featuring natural and lab grown diamonds and gemstones,” providing “all gemstone and mounting specifics”

Step 1: Initial Inspection & Documentation

Before any measurements begin, each diamond is carefully inspected and prepared. Our staff first verifies the diamond is clean, unmounted, and ready for testing — just as international standards recommend. We record a unique IJC report number and match it to the stone, establishing a clear chain-of-custody. Using specialized tools and microscopes, our graders perform an initial screening to spot any treatments or obscurities. This ensures the diamond’s identity (natural vs. lab-grown) and condition are documented before formal grading.

Step 2: Precision Measurement (Weight & Dimensions)

Next, the diamond’s carat weight and dimensions are measured with high precision. IJC labs use calibrated electronic scales and micrometers to record weight and size to within thousandths of a carat or millimeter. These figures – along with shape and depth measurements – will appear on the final certificate. Accurate measurements are crucial because even small weight differences can affect a diamond’s grade and value. By following strict protocols, we ensure each stone is weighed and sized consistently (unlike a casual appraisal).

Step 3: Color Grading

Evaluating color involves a trained eye under controlled conditions. Our graders place the diamond in a specialized light booth and compare it against master stones of known grades. Colors are rated on the industry-standard D–Z scale (D = colorless through Z = light yellow). This universal scale means you can compare IJC grades directly with those from GIA, AGS and other labs. Because even slight hues affect value, we grade color carefully under strict protocols – mirroring the way IJC evaluates diamonds for consistency.

Step 4: Clarity Analysis

Each diamond is then examined under 10× magnification to spot internal and external imperfections. Expert gemologists use loupes and microscopes (as required by industry standards) to find inclusions (spots, crystals, feathers) and blemishes (surface marks). Based on the number, size, and visibility of these flaws, we assign a clarity grade (from Flawless down to Included). A flawless diamond (FL) has no visible imperfections under 10× magnification, while an I3 diamond has obvious inclusions. By documenting any inclusions and plotting their locations, we give you a clear map of the stone’s internal features.

Step 5: Cut & Polish Evaluation

The cut quality determines a diamond’s sparkle. Our experts assess the symmetry of facets, proportions (crown, pavilion angles), polish quality, and overall craftsmanship. Simply put, cut refers to how well the diamond is shaped to reflect light. We grade cut from “Excellent” to “Poor” (or equivalent terms) according to internationally recognized standards. Polish and symmetry are also graded under 10× magnification, ensuring every facet and facet junction meets our high criteria. The result is a cut grade that tells you how brilliant and lively the diamond will appear.

Step 6: Authenticity & Origin Testing

Beyond the Four C’s, we perform advanced analyses to confirm a diamond’s identity. Using instruments like spectrometers and UV lights, we test for treatments and whether a stone is natural or laboratory-grown. Our report explicitly notes a diamond’s origin (natural, HPHT-treated or synthetic) as standard practice. In fact, certification from a reputable lab should always clarify if a diamond is natural or lab-grown. By verifying origin and treatments, we guarantee transparency about your stone’s history.

Final Review & Certification

Once all data is collected, senior gemologists compile a comprehensive grading report. This report breaks down each quality factor (weight, color grade, clarity grade, cut grade) and includes extra details like fluorescence and measurements. Every report is checked by multiple graders to ensure consistency – a hallmark of a trusted lab. In line with global standards, we include diagrams showing inclusion locations, so you see exactly what was observed. Finally, your diamond is given a secure IJC report number, often laser-inscribed on the girdle for added verification. Our printed certificate and digital record provide complete transparency. You’ll find all 4Cs broken down, plus any other relevant information, just like leading laboratories recommend. This level of detail ensures you understand exactly what you have, and it guarantees your diamond meets the standards we report. We package your certified diamond with care, and you can always verify the certificate online or via our customer service.

IJC’s Unique Technology & Guarantees

IJC stands apart thanks to our strict quality controls and advanced tools. Our lab is ISO 17025–accredited, meaning our grading processes meet the highest international standards for lab competence and consistency. We combine traditional expertise with modern technology — for example, using digital imaging and AI-driven analytics to measure facets and map inclusions more precisely (as cutting-edge labs do). Each diamond’s data is stored securely so it can be re-checked at any time.

  • Independent ISO-certified lab:
  • We follow global ISO 17025 standards for testing and calibration.
  • Highly trained gemologists:
  • Our graders are certified gemologists trained in the Four C’s and advanced instruments
  • Laser-etched identifiers:
  • Each graded diamond receives a unique report number (often inscribed on the girdle) to prevent mix-ups.
  • Consistent grading:
  • Multiple graders cross-verify each grade, ensuring stones are evaluated consistently (just as consumers expect from a trusted lab).
  • Accuracy guarantee:
  • We strive for zero discrepancies. If any significant~ grading error is discovered, IJC will promptly re-evaluate the stone. In practice, top labs like GCAL offer a “zero-tolerance” 4Cs grading guarantee, and we hold ourselves to the same standard of honesty.

Final Certification & Your Assurance

When your diamond is graded by IJC, you receive more than just numbers – you get assurance. A properly certified diamond provides transparency and peace of mind, making it easier to insure or resell later. Our report affirms that your gem meets industry standards for quality. Just like GIA or AGS reports, an IJC certificate confirms the authenticity and characteristics of your diamond, so you can shop or gift with confidence. We’re committed to your satisfaction: trust in IJC means knowing exactly what you have, backed by an internationally recognized grading process.

Trust IJC for Your Next Diamond

Ready to see your diamond’s true quality? Contact IJC Worldwide today to learn about our grading services. Our friendly experts will guide you through every step. Trust in our expertise and let IJC make your diamond’s story clear and credible.

  • Sources:
  • Information above is based on recognized gemological standards and practices, adapted to describe IJC Worldwide’s unique diamond grading process.