What happened to me is not an isolated incident...

Diamonds International is a "recommended" store of Carnival Cruise lines and one that should be avoided regardless of their proprietary cuts. I purchased what was supposed to be a Crown of Lights, 0.83 carat H color, VS2 clarity diamond. After receiving a diamond grading by GIA1, the most respected/trusted company in the gemological community, I learned the specifications of the diamond, including its measurements and inclusions mapping were completely different from the diamond they provided me. I appear to be the victim of a bait and switch. After some research, I learned that the EGL certificates they provide you are not trusted/respected by the gemological community.

I also found that, supposedly, the founders of Diamonds International graduated from GIA. Why would well trained gemologists use anything but GIA? The answer is simple: Profits. A stone graded by EGL3 typically receives a higher color and clarity than the GIA grading of the same stone. Diamonds with EGL certificates usually sell for less than their GIA equivalents. However, if that diamond were graded by GIA, it would be worth significantly less. So, using EGL certificates means a company is most likely charging significantly more for their diamonds, while appearing to be charging less.

The BBB rating for Diamonds International's corporate office in Manhattan is poor at best4 and these are only the list of complaints that people actually file. As we know, most people will not get their diamond graded/appraised after purchasing it (especially if it is in a setting) and even if they do most will not file a complaint with the proper bureau or any one at all.

¹GIA
²Founders
³EGL
⁴BBB: Diamonds International