Beware of Fake "GRA" Certificates for Moissanite: Don't Get Scammed
Moissanite, a stunning and more budget-friendly gemstone compared to diamonds, has seen a surge in popularity. However, with this rise comes a concerning number of scams, particularly involving fake certificates.
A common scam involves fake certificates claiming to be from the "Gemological Research Association" (GRA). However, there is no such organization. This name is likely chosen to mimic the highly respected Gemological Institute of America (GIA), which certifies diamonds and other gemstones, but doesn't typically certify moissanite.
- The GIA doesn't typically certify moissanite.
- The website listed www.gra-moissanites.com, is not a legitimate gemological institute website.
Important Tips for Safe Moissanite Purchase:
- Reputable jewelers only: When buying moissanite, stick to established, trustworthy jewelers like Huerta Jewelry.
- Genuine certificates: While moissanite typically doesn't have certificates, if one is presented, ensure it's from a reputable gemological institute like the GIA.
- Be wary of unbelievable deals. If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is.
Avoiding Scams:
- Look for errors: Check for typos or grammatical mistakes in the certificate.
- Quality matters: Ensure the certificate is printed on high-quality paper.
- Unique identifiers: Verify the presence of a unique ID number on the certificate.
- Detailed information: The certificate should include detailed information about the moissanite, like carat weight, cut, color, and clarity etc...
When unsure about a certificate's authenticity, consult a professional jeweler for verification.
Remember, moissanite generally doesn't come with certificates. If you encounter one, especially a "GRA" certificate, exercise extreme caution and prioritize established jewelers like Huerta Jewelry who source their moissanite from reputable dealers and verify their moissanite in-house for peace of mind.