Determining the quality of a diamond is done with a different set of standards depending on the scale and organization which evaluated the diamond. Diamond evaluations are based on the carat which is the size, how it is cut, if it is clear because clarity is important, and the color. Diamonds come in different colors including yellow and black which are different than the traditional clear diamond. The most desirable diamond is one that is completely clear and flawless. Different countries and organizations have come up with different scales such as the Gemological Institute of American (GIA) or The European Gemological Laboratory (EGL).

These scales are used to certify a diamond’s clarity, cut, color, and carat on a scale that is different than any other scale a person may be familiar with today. Diamond scales include categories and grades. These categories also have subsections that are numbered. The EGL scale offers a little bit of an advantage over the GIA scale because it has more grades/numbers which were added to the EGL scale by the European Gemological Laboratory. The EGL has added a third category in the slightly included (SI) section which is not on the GIA scale.

The EGL and the GIA differ not only because the EGL provides added categories which allows for better grading but also because their ratings have different values to purchasers. The EGL is for profit but the GIA is not which means that an EGL certified diamond is often given a higher grade than a GIA certified diamond. EGL certified diamonds are less expensive than GIA certified diamonds which is important for a first time buyer to know when shopping. It is important because you may want to have a diamond evaluated on both scales if possible. A certified EGL diamond are a great choice because you can get them at a great value.