How We Guide

The 4Cs of diamond

Certification Focuses On The 4Cs

4Cs

The 4Cs of diamond, which include Cut, Color, Clarity, and Carat Weight, are the international standards used for grading and certification in terms of quality and value of a given diamond. Cut refers to the measure of how well a diamond has been cut and its brilliance, which affects the sparkle.

Color describes the amount of whitish color in a diamond; colorless is the most valuable, while those with more hue in a blue or yellow tint are less desirable.

Clarity refers to the presence of internal or external imperfections (inclusions and blemishes), while fewer imperfections signify a higher value.

Carat Weight refers to the size of the diamond, the more massive, the more the stone is valuable, rarer, and expensive.

Certification focuses on the 4Cs because they define the objective and standard measurement of characteristics, which brings out a more transparent and trustworthy market. The description of the 4Cs details the diamond certificate, and this serves to give the buyer a proper decision, thereby further reinforcing consistency in pricing and quality evaluations in the trade.

Certification Process at USGL

We guide customers through a clear and structured process to ensure they obtain a trusted and accurate diamond certificate. Here’s how we assist customers with a variety of mediums and services:

The steps to obtain the certification are as follows:

Direct Application

If one is a jeweler or a private person, they can apply directly through the institute's laboratory. One may have to contact the institute and open an account to start off the process.

Application through Authorized Dealer

Many jewelers or retailers are certified by certification institutes and can apply on behalf of you.

Shipping

The sender should pack the diamond safely so that there is no damage during shipping. Customers can provide the institute, if required, with a submission form.

Customers are required to ship the diamond by an insured trackable shipping service so that the diamond arrives at the laboratory safely.

Grading Procedure

Upon receipt at the laboratory, our gemologists grade the 4Cs: Cut, Color, Clarity, and Carat Weight of the diamond making use of specialized tools and techniques. The clarity of the diamond is determined by magnification. Its color is referenced against a master set. Cutting quality evaluates brilliance, symmetry, and proportion. Carat weight is weighed correctly.

XRF spectrometers analyze gold by measuring its electrical conductivity. This method provides precise results and can determine the percentage or karat of gold in a solid piece of jewelry.

Issuing the Certificate

Once grading has been done, our institute will issue a certificate or grading report which gives minute details about the particular diamond's characteristics. The document would be an official representation of its authenticity and quality.

Cost and Timeline

Cost: Fees vary based on carat size and type of report, such as a basic report for smaller diamonds, larger stones, or more in-depth reports like laser inscription or further analysis.

Timing: Certification can be completed in as little as a few days or several weeks; our institute can offer different levels of service for faster turnaround.

Verification and Access

We have an on-line database through which you can track the certification report by referring to the unique report number.

By this, you will therefore be able to get an official diamond certification that ensures your diamond gets professionally evaluated and documented.