In a recent revelation, the International Gemological Institute (IGI), the world’s largest independent gemmological laboratory, uncovered a case of attempted fraud involving a 6.01 carat pear-cut gemstone. The stone, adorned with a laser inscription corresponding to a natural diamond, was submitted to IGI’s Tel Aviv location for verification. Despite the carat weight, physical spread, and primary qualities closely aligning with the online data of a natural diamond, IGI’s rigorous examination exposed the gem as lab-grown.
CEO Tehmasp Printer emphasized the importance of vigilance within the industry, stating, “IGI pioneered the grading of lab-grown diamonds nearly two decades ago for the purpose of clear separation from natural stones. As attempted fraud increases, the need for ongoing verification is a necessary step to protect consumers from purchasing misrepresented gems and jewellery.”
Although the main qualities of the stone mirrored the data from the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) report, IGI’s gemmologists, through photoluminescence spectroscopy, detected a doublet at 737 nm due to SiV defects—an indicator of laboratory growth using the Carbon Vapor Deposition (CVD) process. Microscopy further revealed a carbon inclusion in place of the feather indicated by GIA, along with a cloud, resulting in a lower clarity grade from IGI. A slight depth mismatch was also uncovered.
These subtle yet crucial discrepancies might go unnoticed outside a laboratory setting, particularly once the stone is set into a piece of jewellery. This discovery by IGI aligns with recent industry alerts highlighting instances where lab-grown diamonds are being falsely presented as natural.
Printer emphasized IGI’s commitment to protecting buyers and sellers from fraud, stating, “IGI protects jewellery buyers and sellers from fraud with thorough screening and grading of gemstones and finished jewellery at all 29 of our worldwide locations. A current grading report ensures accuracy, confidence, and peace of mind for professionals and consumers alike.” The case underscores the imperative role played by gemological institutions in maintaining the integrity and trustworthiness of the gemstone market.
