Any issues with old GIA/AGS reports?

[newjourney]

Hi all,

In my search for a RB, I've come across a several strong HCA performing stones. Unfortunately, some of these had accompanying GIA/AGS certificates that dated as far back as 2006. These diamonds are somehow still available, so is there anything in particular to be concerned about? any red flags? In addition, I couldn't even tell if laser inscription was available since there was no mentioning of it under the comment section on the certificate.
I contacted a vendor, but they simply had no way to determine a diamond's history.

Thanks.

 

[Missy]

I would ask for the vendors to send the diamond for recertification. 9 years is a long time and you cannot know what might have happened to the diamond in the meantime. Plus in recent years Important data has been added to the certificates so I would want the best and most up to date info available.

 

[Texas Leaguer]

No problem per se with an older cert. High probablility that it indicates a pre-owned diamond. That is not an issue for many buyers and the fact is that pre-owned diamonds are regularly sent for new certs so there is no way to be sure. The main issue is that the diamond is in original condition. That is, no chips, scratches, bruises. You should definitely seek a consultation with a qualified, independent gemologist within your return period.

Missy's advice above is very good if the vendor is willing to do that. If he is not, that's a bit of a red flag, but not necessarily a deal breaker if you can get the proper consultation by an expert not connected with the sale.

 

[denverappraiser]

Diamonds hold up pretty well, but they're not indestructible. They can nick, chip, scratch, bruise and so on. Updating inspections is relatively easy and, frankly, if this is coming from a dealer I would be curious why it hasn't already been done.

It's also worth noting that AGS changed their rules significantly in 2005 and GIA changed theirs in 2006. Minor changes have happened since. If your papers predate that I would be doubly curious why it hasn't gone back to the lab.

If a laser inscription is important to you, it can be added at the same time they update the report and for a nominal fee. Both labs offer this service.

 

[newjourney]

Thank you missy, Texas Leaguer and denverappraiser for your expert take on this.

The vendor I contacted has a diamond with very nice proportions accompanied by an AGS certificate dated 2008 (not the oldest I had come across). I did ask for the possibility of having the diamond resubmitted for certification, unfortunately it is not a service they offer. I was a bit disappointed since they're one of the major reputable vendors routinely mentioned on these forums. I guess it is a red flag so I'll just move on to other options. Thanks again!

 

[Texas Leaguer]

Thank you missy, Texas Leaguer and denverappraiser for your expert take on this.

The vendor I contacted has a diamond with very nice proportions accompanied by an AGS certificate dated 2008 (not the oldest I had come across). I did ask for the possibility of having the diamond resubmitted for certification, unfortunately it is not a service they offer. I was a bit disappointed since they're one of the major reputable vendors routinely mentioned on these forums. I guess it is a red flag so I'll just move on to other options. Thanks again!

That is a bit unusual. I would think that a vendor recommended here would provide that service. Unless it is a virtual diamond that they do not own.

 

[WinkHPD]

Ditto that! If they have the diamond in house it is a short visit to GIA or AGS to update the report. We do it with every diamond that we trade up. It is our guarantee that there was no damage to the diamond while it was being worn. It protects both us and most importantly, our future client who may buy the diamond.

Wink

 

[newjourney]

Yes, having received all your feedback, it is peculiar why they wouldn't update that certificate.
No, that diamond is not from a virtual collection. The vendor uses a hallmark on their inventory to signifies if the diamond is onsite. That diamond has it.

At any rate, I'm loosing interest in that diamond even if they somehow change their mind and have it recertified. Psychologically, the diamond being in circulation 7 years does make me feel uneasy due to its unknown history. This whole process of searching for the right engagement ring is already quite intimidating so I'll just find something more current to make things less stressful. Thank you for all your comments. I'm learning a lot.