Summary
GIA has taken one step in helping to curb the illicit use of diamond reports. Unfortunately as long as there is mankind, thieves will be with us. Being able to call GIA to be sure a report is the correct one is a very good idea, but needs to be carried out further on a global scale. The use of laser marking on the girdle has proven to be impractical as demonstrated in this article.
GIA should also set up an e-mail address for customers to access and be given the same information, since this is a worldwide problem. Also instruct dealers who sell diamonds, with diamond reports to show customers that the dimensions match up correctly and also insist that the customer examine the diamond with a microscope, or better yet, inform the customer to get a second opinion from a private appraiser as well to back up the stats on the report. Everything used on the GIA reports as security safeguards are available on the open market. All customers purchasing diamonds over 1.00 carat should do the above.
Jules Rabalais
Gemological Appraisal Laboratories
Analysis
Mr Rabalais is a graduate of the Gemological Institute of America and has been active in the jewelry industry for 30 plus years, including Jewelry appraising and diamond buying for over 30 years. Very seldom will you run into the problems encountered here, but they do exist. A second opinion on a large and expensive diamond or gemstone should always be done due to the cost of such an item. The cost of a second opinion is minuscule in comparison to the cost of the actual item. Accepting a report created in a very, very large grading facility, does not automatically guarantee quality. An independent appraiser can spend more time to be sure that all is correct.
