Are GIA and AGS equally reputable?

[baby nurse]

I'm looking for a diamond and noticed some have a certificate from GIA and others from AGS-- is one (lab) as good as the other?

Also, I thought I read somewhere that a diamond graded as a K by AGS would be more likely graded as an L by GIA. Is this true?

Thanks !

 

[gemgirl]

There have been many threads about this particular subject posted in RT over the years. Both GIA and AGS are reputable grading labs.
Some people have a preference of one over the other, but a stone graded by either can be whole heartedly believed to be what it states on it's grading report. That's the truth. Now, having said that...... It's been my experience as a PSer, that AGS Ideal cuts are more valued here on PS; but in the outside world, at least with the one MG I know and the GGs I've had contact with in the last fifteen years, they accept GIA's standards and practices as gospel truth. With either GIA or AGS you really can't go wrong.

 

[baby nurse]

Thanks very much for the detailed explanation, gemgirl!

 

[kristi2011]

My finance did a ton of research before purchasing my center stone. From what he told me, with GIA, a diamond is graded my multiple grader and I'm assuming all of them have to had the same specs before its put on the certificate. With AGS I think one person grades it only. I could be wrong but this is of the things that stood out to me. GIA is the first company to develop the whole grading system. AGS branched off and started their own company. I know when we were searching for my center stone, GIA certified diamond are more expensive than AGS. However if you are looking for a hearts and arrow, AGS is more expensive. Some say hearts and arrow is just a marketing tool to jack up the price. But the is another discussion.

I have triple x stone. H color. VS1. 1.72 carat and from my experience I would say look at the diamond in person. If you like it purchase it. Beauty is in the eyes of the beholder. Hope this helps.