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ANTWERP, Belgium--Diamond grading laboratory, the International Gemological Institute (IGI), has confirmed it will continue applying the universal 4Cs grading to all diamonds, whether natural or lab-grown. This affirmation comes as the Gemological Institute of America and other labs have moved to a diluted scale for lab grown diamonds.

IGI began grading lab-grown diamonds in 2005. Recognizing their identical properties to natural diamonds, IGI applied the existing 4Cs to prevent industry and consumer confusion, mirroring the approach taken in the cultured pearl market, it said in a statement. “Since inception, IGI has remained steadfast in its mission as an independent, third-party authentication body - unbiased, and free from external influence. “Every diamond we certify undergoes a rigorous 14-step grading process.”

The statement continues, “For close to a century, the 4Cs -- Cut, Color, Clarity, and Carat -- have served as the universal language for assessing diamond quality. At IGI, we uphold these standards not merely out of tradition, but from a deep-rooted belief in the consumer’s right to transparency, knowledge, and confidence.”