What are the pros and cons of GIA vs. EGL certification of diamonds?

Question

I am looking to get a 1 carat stone certified, which route should I take?

Answer 1

Honestly, EGL certs are BS within the industry. EGL will cert a stone at whatever the diamond dealers want them to, to get the highest available prices. If you want to independently cert your stone, send it to GIA, and have them also get an AGS cut grade report as well. It will cost you more then a cheesy EGL cert, but it will be a more honest evaluation of your stone, which will be better for you in the long run when it comes to insurance purposes, or resale value.