* Gemological lab
European Gemological Laboratory: reports, scope, and how to verify a certificate
Federated network of independently-owned EGL labs (Antwerp, USA, Israel, South Africa, etc.). Grading standards vary by location, leading to inconsistency concerns. EGL USA was decertified by RAPNET in 2014.
Published May 30, 2026
Quick facts
- Full name
- European Gemological Laboratory
- Headquarters
- Antwerp (international franchises)
- Country
- Belgium
- Founded
- 1974
- Status
- Active
- Scope
- diamond grading
What they're known for
Federated network of independently-owned EGL labs (Antwerp, USA, Israel, South Africa, etc.). Grading standards vary by location, leading to inconsistency concerns. EGL USA was decertified by RAPNET in 2014.
Report types
- EGL Diamond Certificate
Each of these describes and grades a stone — its measured properties, quality, and any detected treatments. Note that a grading report is not an appraisal: most labs document what the stone is, not what it is worth in dollars.
How to verify a report
To confirm a EGL report is genuine, check the report number against EGL's official online verification and make sure every detail on the printed document matches the database record. If the stone carries a laser inscription on its girdle, confirm it reads the same report number under magnification. Be wary of photocopied, scanned, or altered certificates — always trust the lab's own lookup over a piece of paper.
* Frequently asked
FAQ
- Q. Is a EGL report an appraisal?
- A. No. A EGL report grades and identifies a stone — color, clarity, cut, weight, and any treatments — but it does not state a dollar value. For an insurance or resale figure you still need a separate appraisal that prices the stone against the current market.
- Q. What does EGL grade?
- A. European Gemological Laboratory covers diamond grading. Each report documents the stone's measured properties so two parties can describe the same item in the same language.
- Q. How do I check a EGL report is real?
- A. Enter the report number into EGL's official online verification at https://www.egl.co/ and confirm every detail matches the printed certificate. Check that any laser inscription on the diamond's girdle matches the report number, and be wary of photocopied or altered documents.
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