Reports & Verification

How to Read a Diamond or Gemstone Report

A report is easiest to understand when you read it in a consistent order. Begin with the document's identity, move through the item description and results, and finish with the comments and limitations.

1. Identify the laboratory and report product

Read the issuing laboratory's name, the report title, number, and issue date. The title tells you what type of service the document represents.

A detailed grading report, an identification report, and a mounted-jewelry report should not be assumed to provide identical information.

2. Read the item description

Look for the material designation, shape or cutting style, measurements, and weight where provided. Check whether the stone is identified as natural, laboratory-grown, synthetic, or another material as applicable.

For a jewelry item, read the description of the whole piece and any scope limitation concerning its components.

3. Review the result fields

For diamonds, applicable grading information may include color, clarity, and cut-related results. For colored gemstones, identity and treatment conclusions may be central.

Focus on the fields that address your question. Do not assume a missing result was examined and found unimportant; it may be outside the report's scope.

4. Read diagrams and identifiers in context

Where included, a clarity plot, proportions diagram, photograph, or inscription record can help explain the item. Use the legend and supporting notes.

A diagram is a technical aid, not a replacement for understanding the full conclusion.

5. Read every comment

Comments may explain estimates, restrictions, observations, or additional details. They are part of the report.

If a seller summarizes the document, compare the summary with the complete wording. Ask about any difference before relying on it.

6. Check the official record

Use the issuing laboratory's official verification route where available. Enter the complete number and compare the returned information with the document.

If physical identity remains uncertain, seek a qualified comparison of the stone and its identifying characteristics.

7. Keep the report with the item history

Retain the complete document alongside purchase and repair records. If the item changes after the report date, record what happened and ask whether the earlier description remains suitable for your purpose.

The best question to finish with is simple: does this report answer the question I need answered about this particular item?

Further reading: IGI: How to read a report