Background
In July 2018, the United States Federal Trade Commission (FTC) revised the definition of diamonds, removing the term "natural" and including lab-grown diamonds within the diamond category. Major diamond grading institutions such as GIA (Gemological Institute of America), IGI (International Gemological Institute), and HRD (High Council for Diamonds) have subsequently adopted the 4C grading standards for lab-grown diamonds.
GIA's Approach to Lab-Grown Diamonds
The GIA's certificates for lab-grown diamonds include the complete 4C evaluation—carat, color, clarity, and cut—similar to natural diamonds. The descriptions for color and clarity use the same standards as for natural diamonds, but these do not account for the rarity associated with natural diamonds.
Comparison: Lab-Grown vs. Natural Diamonds
- Quality and Rarity:
- Lab-Grown Diamonds: Industrially produced diamonds, such as those created via Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD), can consistently achieve high quality. For instance, CVD diamonds often belong to the IIa type, which is extremely rare in nature (constituting only about 2% of natural diamonds). Type IIa diamonds are nearly pure and lack significant impurities, resulting in exceptional transparency and brilliance.
- Natural Diamonds: Due to the complex and variable conditions under which they form, natural diamonds exhibit a wider range of qualities and inclusions, necessitating detailed grading parameters that can be complex for consumers to understand.
- Color:
- Lab-Grown Diamonds: Can be produced in a wide variety of colors, offering greater flexibility and creativity in jewelry design. The ability to produce vivid and rare colors on demand is a significant advantage.
- Natural Diamonds: Often limited in color variety and typically more expensive when exhibiting rare colors.
- Shape and Cut:
- Lab-Grown Diamonds: The controlled production environment allows for a greater variety of shapes and cuts at a more cost-effective rate. This versatility makes them appealing for diverse and customized jewelry designs.
- Natural Diamonds: The variability in rough diamond shapes often limits the range of possible cuts, and achieving unusual shapes can be costly.
The Need for a New Grading Standard
Given these differences, the traditional 4C grading standard for natural diamonds might not fully capture the unique qualities and advantages of lab-grown diamonds. A simplified and consumer-friendly grading system tailored to lab-grown diamonds could better serve the retail market.
Introduction of GDC Grading Standard
Recognizing this need, the International Association of Intelligent Diamonds (AIDI) introduced the GDC (Gem and Diamond Certificate) grading standard in November 2023, specifically for the retail market of lab-grown diamonds. The GDC grading focuses on:
- Color: Highlighting the wide range of vivid and rare colors available in lab-grown diamonds.
- Shape: Emphasizing the variety and customization options in diamond shapes.
- Clarity: Simplified clarity grading that acknowledges the typically high purity of lab-grown diamonds.
This new grading standard aims to be easily understandable for consumers, facilitating informed purchasing decisions and boosting confidence in lab-grown diamonds.
Conclusion
While the traditional 4C grading standard is well-established for natural diamonds, lab-grown diamonds present unique qualities that may not be fully appreciated through this framework. The GDC grading standard offers a more tailored approach, aligning with the distinct characteristics and advantages of lab-grown diamonds. By simplifying the grading process and focusing on relevant attributes, the GDC standard can play a crucial role in unlocking the potential of the lab-grown diamond market, especially in regions like China.
For more information or to request documentation, interested parties can visit the AIDI website or email info@aidi.org.