The diamond industry comprises multiple independent grading laboratories, including the GIA (Gemological Institute of America), IGI (International Gemological Institute), EGL (European Gemological Laboratory), and HRD (Hoge Raad voor Diamant).
Because each laboratory utilises its own distinct standards, equipment, and methodologies, grading variations are common. For example, GIA is widely known for its strict grading criteria, whereas some other labs adopt slightly more lenient, commercially friendly standards. This can result in a diamond receiving a colour and clarity grades that differs higher or lower depending on which lab certified it (e.g., a "G" colour grade from one lab might be evaluated as an "H" or "I" by another).
However, this variation does not impact the physical or visual quality of the diamond itself. It simply reflects differing grading perceptions and criteria between the institutes, rather than a change in the diamond’s actual physical characteristics.
Our Policy on Cross-Grading and Returns
Because grading is inherently subjective and standards vary across all grading labs, Nivoda quality-checks and sells each stone based strictly on the official certificate provided with that specific diamond.
Important Return Policy Note: Any independent grading, cross-grading, or secondary evaluations conducted by a customer after purchase through a different laboratory will not be recognized by Nivoda. Results from alternative labs do not alter the validity of the original certificate and do not make a stone eligible for return.
How Does Nivoda Handle This Variation?
At Nivoda, transparency is key. While these grading differences are a known industry reality, we honour the official certificate that accompanies the stone. We will only flag grading variances if you explicitly specify them in your Quality Control (QC) preferences. This approach ensures we precisely address your unique business needs while maintaining maximum efficiency in our fulfillment processes.
Customising your order: You can easily add your own specific QC comments and instructions at checkout for any order to ensure the stone meets your exact requirements.