The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) has introduced a simplified method for classifying artificial diamonds, which divides them into two categories instead of the traditional 4C system. This is the third change in the institute’s approach in recent years, which has caused controversy in the jewelry industry.
The GIA has completely overhauled its approach to certifying man-made diamonds. Instead of detailed reports on the 4C system (carat, color, clarity, cut), the institute now divides all synthetic stones into two main categories: “standard” and “premium”. Samples that do not meet the minimum requirements do not receive certificates at all.
According to the CEO of GIA, such changes are due to fundamental changes in the market. Back in 2020, high quality synthetic diamonds were worth more than $20,000, which justified a detailed appraisal. However, today their price has dropped significantly due to improved production technologies. Now, the cost of a standard grading report sometimes exceeds the price of the stone itself, making detailed certification uneconomical.
Developments in production technology also influenced the institute’s decision. Modern diamond growing methods provide consistent color and clarity quality for 95% of products, making the old system redundant. It is important to note that the GIA certifies less than 5% of all synthetic diamonds produced in the world.
The innovation met with different attitudes among market participants. Natural diamond producers support the change, while many synthetic stone producers continue to use the traditional 4C system for their products.
Experts believe that for end consumers, changing the rating system will not have a significant impact. Buyers are more likely to pay attention to the appearance and cost of jewelry than to the features of certification. GIA’s new approach could make synthetic diamonds even more affordable while still allowing for choice between different quality grades.
The Gemological Institute of America is a reputable international organization dedicated to the research, evaluation and certification of gemstones. The institute sets standards for the jewelry industry and is known for its strict grading system for natural diamonds.
The new grading system reflects the maturity of the synthetic diamond market and its emergence as a mass product. Simplification of the certification procedure could contribute to further growth in sales of artificial stones, making them even more competitive compared to their natural counterparts.
The material was prepared with the support of the Russian Ministry of Education and Science as part of the Decade of Science and Technology.
Source: geonews.ru
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