- Identity, date and report number
- Measurements and grades
- Proportions or clarity information
- Comments, treatments and inscriptions
Read these fields first
| Field | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Report number and date | Use the number to retrieve the laboratory’s own record. Note when the examination occurred. |
| Natural or laboratory-grown origin | Confirms which kind of diamond the laboratory identified. Look for disclosed treatments or post-growth treatment information where provided. |
| Shape and cutting style | Names the outline and facet arrangement, such as round brilliant or emerald cut. |
| Measurements | Round reports usually give minimum diameter, maximum diameter and depth. Fancy shapes usually show length, width and depth. |
| Carat weight | Records weight, not visible width. |
| Colour and clarity | Describe graded colour and clarity under controlled conditions. |
| Cut and finish | Natural round-brilliant reports may include an overall cut grade. Polish and symmetry are separate finish assessments. |
| Fluorescence | Records the strength and colour of the reaction under laboratory ultraviolet light. |
| Comments and inscription | May disclose treatments, unusual characteristics or a report number inscribed on the girdle. |
Use the clarity plot as a map
Some reports plot clarity characteristics. The symbols help identify the diamond and show the type and location of inclusions or blemishes. The plot is not a photograph and does not show exactly how obvious a feature will look. Compact reports may omit it.
Match the report to the actual diamond
- Retrieve the report from the laboratory’s official verification service.
- Match the report number, carat weight and measurements to the seller’s listing and invoice.
- Check whether a girdle inscription is present and ask how it will be verified.
- Confirm that any treatment or growth information is reproduced in the sale description.
- Keep the report, invoice, photographs and appraisal separately from the ring.
Laboratory-grown report language changed
Since 1 October 2025, GIA has used an overall “Premium” or “Standard” quality assessment for eligible colourless to near-colourless laboratory-grown diamonds, rather than the natural-diamond grading nomenclature it previously used for that service. Older GIA laboratory-grown reports can therefore look different from newer assessments.
IGI continues to issue reports that identify natural or laboratory-grown origin and document quality characteristics. Whatever laboratory appears on the document, verify it through that laboratory’s official service and read the exact fields rather than assuming all report formats are equivalent.
What the report cannot tell you
- Whether you will enjoy the diamond’s pattern and sparkle.
- Whether an inclusion is distracting to you at normal distance.
- How well a fancy shape handles light overall.
- Whether the price represents good value.
- Whether the finished setting is secure, comfortable or well made.
Sources
See GIA’s guide to its natural-diamond grading report, 2025 laboratory-grown service update, IGI diamond-report overview and the official IGI verification service.