Start with identity, not the headline grade
Look for the report number, laboratory-grown origin, shape or cutting style, and the details that connect the document to the stone. IGI explains that its laboratory-grown report records origin and grading information. [Review IGI's report guidance](https://www.igi.org/reports/lab-grown-diamond-report/).
Ask how the report number is matched to the diamond. A screenshot without a verifiable number, inscription, or seller-specific reference is a lead, not proof that the document belongs to the stone in the photo.
Measurements tell you what carat cannot
Length, width, and depth are the beginning of the visual comparison. Two stones with the same carat weight can have different spread because weight is distributed through different proportions.
For fancy shapes, place measurements next to the outline and ratio. For a pear or marquise, check balance. For an emerald cut, treat transparency and step-facet behavior as part of the inspection, not as a footnote to carat weight.
Read color and clarity as a decision lane
D/E/F sit in the colorless range described by IGI, while clarity depends on the visibility, size, number, location, and nature of characteristics under magnification. A grade is useful shorthand, but the inclusion map and video still matter.
IDAN's preferred lane, D/E/F color and VS1, VVS2, or VVS1 clarity, is a premium starting point, not a substitute for inspecting the stone. Ask what remains visible at normal viewing distance and in the intended setting.
Finish fields change by shape
Round brilliant diamonds receive an overall cut grade, while fancy shapes are assessed through shape-specific considerations such as proportions, finish, and light return. Do not treat an 'excellent' word on a product page as a replacement for the report fields.
Bring the report together with face-up video, measurements, and the setting plan. A document can identify a stone precisely while a real-stone review explains how that stone behaves visually.
The report is the start of the comparison
Once the document is verified, compare report, measurements, shape, color, clarity, finish, setting, terms, and total delivered price. If one is missing, label the comparison incomplete rather than filling the gap with an assumption.
Send IDAN the actual report or listing when you want a second look. The useful outcome may be a better match, a clearer question, or confidence that the stone already makes sense.
Technical report explanations are cross-checked against IGI’s laboratory-grown diamond report guidance. Content design follows Google’s people-first guidance for original, useful, trustworthy pages.