GIA Study Guide 2026
Everything you need to pass the GIA exam in one place: the exam format, every topic to study, real practice questions with explanations, flashcards, and full-length practice tests. Free, no sign-up needed.
📋 GIA Exam Format at a Glance
📚 GIA Topics to Study (69)
✍️ Sample GIA Questions & Answers
1. According to GIA documentation, a diamond graded 'I' on the color scale would be described as which of the following?
GIA's I color grade falls in the 'Near Colorless' range (G–J), where color is noticeable to a trained grader but may not be apparent to a layperson.
2. Which C would most likely affect a diamond’s transparency?
Clarity refers to the presence of inclusions and blemishes within or on the diamond. Significant or numerous inclusions can obstruct the passage of light, making the diamond appear less transparent or even cloudy, thus directly impacting its overall transparency.
3. A jeweler knowingly sells a treated diamond without disclosing the treatment. Under GIA and FTC guidelines, this is considered:
FTC guidelines and GIA ethics require full disclosure of any treatments that affect a diamond's value or durability.
4. When comparing two round brilliants of equal carat weight, the diamond with a shallower total depth percentage will typically appear:
A shallower cut spreads the carat weight across a wider diameter, making the diamond appear larger face-up, though it may sacrifice light performance.
5. Alluvial diamond deposits are formed when:
Alluvial deposits result from weathering and erosion of primary kimberlite or lamproite, concentrating diamonds in sediment.
6. Which GIA cut grade is the highest achievable for a standard round brilliant diamond?
GIA's highest cut grade is 'Excellent,' which represents the top tier of cut quality for standard round brilliant diamonds.