Science-Backed Precision
Every gemstone and diamond that enters our laboratory undergoes a comprehensive multi-stage testing process. Our certified gemologists use state-of-the-art equipment — from spectroscopes to precision refractometers — to document every measurable characteristic with absolute accuracy.
Our 5-Stage Certification Process
Laboratory Testing Methods
Optical Microscopy
High-powered binocular microscopes reveal internal inclusions, growth patterns, and crystal structure — the fingerprint of every gem.
10x–100x magnification with darkfield & brightfield illumination
UV-Vis Spectroscopy
Measures how the stone absorbs light across ultraviolet and visible wavelengths, identifying its chemical composition and origin.
190–1100nm wavelength range for precise identification
Refractometer Analysis
Determines the refractive index — the way light bends through the gem — to confirm species and separate natural from synthetic stones.
Precision to 0.001 RI units on calibrated instruments
Specific Gravity Testing
Hydrostatic weighing measures the density of the stone, a key physical constant that helps confirm its identity.
Accurate to 0.01 g/cm³ using precision electronic balances
Fluorescence Testing
Long-wave and short-wave UV lamps reveal fluorescence reactions, helping detect treatments, synthetics, and species identification.
365nm LW and 254nm SW UV analysis chambers
Proportion Analysis
Advanced optical scanning measures cut proportions, symmetry, and light performance with sub-millimeter accuracy.
Crown angle, pavilion depth, table %, and girdle thickness
International Grading Scales Used
Cut Grade
Evaluates how well the stone's proportions interact with light to create brilliance, fire, and scintillation.
Clarity Grade
Assesses the number, size, position, and nature of internal inclusions and surface blemishes.
Color Grade
Grades colorless to light yellow/brown on a standardized scale under controlled lighting conditions.
Polish Grade
Evaluates the smoothness and quality of the stone's facet surfaces after cutting and polishing.
Spectroscopy
Infrared & Raman spectroscopy for mineral identification
Laser Screening
DiamondSure™ and DiamondView™ type screening protocols
Photomicrography
High-resolution inclusion photography for permanent records
Need Your Stone Tested & Graded?
Our laboratory accepts walk-in submissions and courier specimens. Contact us to learn about turnaround times and fees.