A new addition to the “Heirloom” collection, this one-of-a-kind piece features 32 custom-cut gemstones.
AGS Labs Resumes Grading of Lab-Grown Diamonds
It will use the same color and clarity grading scales that are used for natural diamonds but add a special designation.
The lab stopped offering the service in 2013 due to a lack of demand, Executive Director Jason Quick told National Jeweler.
Now, as demand for man-made stones has picked up, AGS Labs wanted to take a “fresh approach” to the grading report.
The new report for lab-grown diamonds is the result of more than a year of research and development to create one that aligns with AGS Labs’ mission of consumer protection and ensures consumers understand what they’re getting, Quick said.
The system is designed to distinguish the grading from natural diamonds while also providing a basis for comparison, Quick said.
For example, a lab-grown diamond could receive an “LG-D” color grade and an “LG-VS1” clarity grade.
The reports also will contain the following statement: “It is important to note that the color and clarity grades do not reflect the rarity of a laboratory-grown diamond, but rather the quality and consistency of the manufacturing process.”
AGS Labs’ lab-grown diamond grading reports also will offer the standard AGS 0 to 10 cut-grade scale, including the AGS Ideal cut grade, but does not utilize the “LG” designation used for color and clarity.
Additionally, the new report will contain a description of the laboratory-grown growth method used.
“We feel like that is important for the consumer to understand the details behind how the laboratory-grown diamond was created,” Quick said.
It will also offer explanations of the differences between the high pressure-high temperature (HPHT) and chemical vapor deposition (CVD) processes.
AGS Laboratories is starting with a pilot program for the lab-grown diamond reports and will open the service more broadly to the industry later this year.
The Laboratory-Grown Diamond Grading Report will be in a digital form only to start.
It’s a component of Only My Diamond for Laboratory-Grown Diamonds, an interactive online tool featuring additional educational information, including a special section on the 4Cs of man-made diamonds.
When asked if AGS Labs would eventually expand to printed reports, Quick said it will “re-evaluate enhancements throughout the pilot program.”
The Latest
Last month in Dallas, David Walton pushed another jeweler, David Ettinger, who later died.
The move will allow the manufacturing company to offer a more “diverse and comprehensive” range of products.
With Ho Brothers, you can unlock your brand's true potential and offer customers the personalized jewelry experiences they desire.
From now through mid-May, GIA will be offering the reports at a 50 percent discount.
De Beers’ rough diamond sales were down 18 percent year-over-year in its latest round of sales.
Sponsored by the Las Vegas Antique Jewelry & Watch Show
For over 30 years, JA has advocated for the industry, fought against harmful legislation and backed measures that help jewelry businesses.
The Patek Philippe expert will serve as personal curator for the brand-focused company.
The 553-square-foot shop is aboard the Carnival Jubilee cruise ship.
NDC filed a complaint against Skydiamond for use of phrases like “diamonds made entirely from the sky.”
John Carter received the AGS’s highest honor Tuesday afternoon at Conclave in Austin, Texas.
LVMH said the company performed well despite an uncertain geopolitical and economic environment.
B&D Sales and Service held a ribbon-cutting event for its new location in Cranston, Rhode Island.
It’s ultra-feminine and filled with gold, pearls, and soft pastels.
Emily Highet Morgan and Emily Bennett have joined the agency’s team.
Its updated book for mountings is also now available.
She has been with the organization since 2010, most recently serving as its chief officer of PR and industry relations.
Joyce’s Jewelry sued the bank after cybercriminals drained its accounts of nearly $1.6 million through a series of wire transfers.
He is remembered by loved ones for his loyalty, integrity, and kindness.
Hosted by Freeman’s | Hindman, the sale will take place May 7-8.
The auction house said all 24 timepieces offered in its underground sale of rare and avant-garde watches quickly found buyers.
From lab-grown diamonds and AI to the inevitable Taylor Swift mention, here are some of Conclave’s most intriguing educational offerings.
From cybersecurity liability to trade show coverage, insurance experts share tips on how to build the right policy.
The charm is a modern rendition of the evil eye amulet that has been worn for thousands of years.
Ahead of its trade show next month, TJS awarded free registration and accommodations to one jewelry professional and three students.
By the end of this year, SRK’s diamond manufacturing complexes will achieve net zero emissions, one of an impressive array of achievements.