Old GIA certificate

[Orki]

Hi Everybody!

I am looking for an 1ct./FL-IF/H/3Ex round diamond in Antwerp

And was offered for some good stones, but with GIA certificates dated late 2012

Would be really grateful for advice what are the risks of purchasing such stones?

And what it can mean? That the diamond has some negative things and can't be sold so long? Or its a secondary sell?

Also what is the chance that GIA certificate can be forged or reused with different similar diamond? How to check it's validity?


Anton

 

[ArdenJewelers]

Hi Anton, that sounds like a stunning diamond. I wouldn't be too concerned about a cert from 2012. The diamond has been on our planet for quite some time before GIA graded it. Sitting in an envelope with a GIA cert for a couple of years doesn't make it a bad or unwanted Diamond.

I would be more concerned that the diamond matches the cert. Any competent, GIA trained gemologist should have the equipment and skill set to positively identify and confirm that the Diamond matches the paperwork. Most don't charge much for that service (under $50 is common), so having that done might be a good course of action.

One last thing to consider is if the Diamond has fluorescence or not. In Diamonds, there is positive and negative fluorescence, and GIA doesn't note which kind it is. If it has fluorescence, take the diamond out into the sunlight. If it turns hazy or foggy, that is negative fluorescence, and the diamond should be discounted 10-50% depending on how bad it is. If you're interested, here's a short article I have on diamond fluorescence on my website.

Just curious why are you looking for such high clarity?

 

[Orki]

Thank you!

I am aware about potential fluorescence issue. It can be checked in the room near the window under the sunlight? Unlikely seller will allow me to walk out to the street with the diamond))

I am in fact reviewing VVS1 and VVS2 also. And not the last because to be able to check the inclusions and compare them in the report. What is the chance in Antwerp to get a forged diamond or certificate?

 

[ArdenJewelers]

As far as the fluorescence goes, a normal (non-tinted) window shouldn't have any affect on determining fluorescence. So, go ahead and check it near a window if they don't want to escort you outside.

VVS1-VVS2 is a very small difference under a loop. So, if both stones face up beautifully, then I would choose the VVS2 and save some money.

Unfortunately, there are fake diamonds throughout the globe, and I'm sure Antwerp is no different. Have the seller prove to you that the diamond you are looking at matches the paperwork that's with it. This can be done in a number of ways. First, if it's laser engraved, make sure that the inscription on the girdle of the diamond matches the paperwork. Second, find the inclusions and make sure they match the paperwork. Lastly, you can put the loose diamond in a Sarin machine to check the exact dimensions of the diamond to make sure they match the paperwork. Note that there will often be very small discrepancies between the Sarin report and the cert, but they should be minor. A significant difference indicates a problem.

Hopefully that helps, and let me know if you have any other questions.