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The Perfect Pendant

I absolutely adore wearing pendants. A beautiful pendant can instantly add the wow factor to any type of outfit. My collection includes diamond, sapphire, ruby, purple amethyst, green amethyst, blue topaz, and garnet pendants. I like classically shaped pendants such as heart ones. My favorite pendant is the heart shaped diamond one my husband presented me with on our memorable honeymoon. Whenever I want to add sparkle to an outfit, I wear this stunning piece of jewelry. On this blog, I hope you will discover the amazing benefits of owning a variety of different types and sizes of pendants. Enjoy!

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The Perfect Pendant

Four Reasons To Consider Buying GIA-Certified Diamonds For Large Carat Stones

by Natalie Fields

GIA stands for the Gemological Institution of America; they are a highly respected certification group throughout the world. Although GIA is common throughout Europe and Asia, here in America, it is the IGI or International Gemological Institute that is more common. However, when you are shopping for a diamond, you should give preference to those diamonds that are GIA certified. 

GIA has a strict and consistent grading system

From the beginning, GIA's mission was to create a methodology that could be applied to diamonds that would lead to a consistent assessment of each diamond. The system that they created is now used by everyone. It is based on four characteristics: clarity, color, cut, and weight. This has become known as the four C's. They have used these standards to train gemologists all over the world, including the United States.

The certification reports are more detailed

More detailed certification is true for diamonds small or large; however, the IGI reports can be short with fewer details. IGI reports are available with a faster turnaround time than GIA certifications, which makes them popular with jewelers selling diamonds to the masses. If you're buying a large-carat diamond, a GIA report will be detailed enough that you know what you're getting. IGI does offer full reports that are more detailed, but there is still the issue of consistency in grading.

There is less chance of overpaying for your diamond

Because GIA labs have a consistent methodology and well-trained technicians, you will likely get what you are paying for. With inconsistent standards, the difference is likely to favor the seller over the buyer. If you're looking at diamonds as an investment, this consistency in grading can, over time, mean a smaller return on your money.

GIA emphasizes natural diamonds

Natural diamonds are mined from the Earth while lab-grown diamonds are produced over a couple of months, using a process similar to nature. There is no difference other than natural diamonds contain some nitrogen. But if you're looking to buy large-carat diamonds as an investment, it is natural diamonds that have a rarity attached to them that may give them greater value. Although GIA certifies lab-grown diamonds, it is IGI that emphasizes the lab-grown diamond.

If you are looking to buy one or more large-carat diamonds, use GIA certification. Their grading system and methodology are consistent and strict, a full report on the stone is provided, and you will know what you're paying for. As an investment, you may want natural diamonds, but GIA certifies lab-grown diamonds as well. 

Contact a local jeweler to learn more about GIA-certified diamonds.

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