The global diamond market is worth in excess of $132 billion. The demand for diamonds has been steadily increasing over the past few years, with increases being witnessed in every region. This is due to a combination of factors including rising GDP’s, increasing levels of education, and an increase in the middle class. The gia vs igi Diamond Comparison highlights some of the main differences between these two sources of rough diamonds. Given that both supply and demand are part and parcel of this debate, we decided to focus on one major source – namely, IGI Group – rather than a second party. This article explains what gia vs igi means and which is more valuable.
What is the difference between gia and igi diamonds?
The main difference between gia and igi diamonds is in their origins. While gia comes from South Africa, igi diamonds are found in Namibia. In addition, gia is generally regarded as a primary mined stone while igi is secondary. Furthermore, while gia is a rough gem, igi is a polished gem.
GIA Diamonds
GIA (Global Association of Jewellers) diamonds are produced in IGRs by De Beers in Africa and are safeguarded with the highest levels of security. In the majority of IGRs, the diamonds are referred to as “junk” or “sub-grade” and the CITES verification process requires a stringent “junk” diamond verification process. GIA certified diamonds contain valuable information about the gem origins, including the country of origin, finders, and collection date.
IGI Group Diamonds
The IGI group of over 100 mining and trading companies is known for their gem quality diamonds and beauty. IGDs are commonly used in advanced technology, fracture-free, and micro-grinding processes to reduce wear and tear on the valuable diamonds.
Which is Worth More, a GIA or IGI Diamond?
As with most forms of commerce, the marketplace determines which is worth more – the stone or the label affixed to it. The value of a GIA diamond is directly related to the security and quality of the diamond. The value of an IGI diamond is determined by the rarity, condition, and quality of the stone. There are a few factors that affect the value of a GIA diamond. These are its gem quality, its source, and its clarity. The gem quality of a Gia diamond is determined by the nature of the rock from which it was gemoned. A GIA diamond that is unmatured, that has not achieved its maximum potential, and that is too small in scale to account for its high jewel quality is of little value. When a GIA diamond is certified as “GIA”, it carries that high of a degree of accuracy. The clarity of an IGI diamond is also indicative of its value. A GIA diamond that is extremely clear is worth more than an IGI diamond that is less than clear.
