What is a gem lab?

When shopping for an appraiser, you may want to inquire about equipment and qualifications. Having the proper laboratory equipment is imperative. Require that your appraiser have a fully equipped gemological laboratory meeting rigid industry standards set by AGS, AGA, ASA, or NAJA.

List of Laboratory Instruments

GIA Binocular Dark Field Microscopes
Electronic Scale measuring to 0.000 ct.
GIA Portalab - Fully Portable Laboratory
Austron Digital Diamond Colorimeter
Fiber Optic Lighting
Daylight Equivalent Lighting
Touchstone and acids-necessary for metal testing
TRI – electronic metal tester
Spectroscopes – calcite and defraction grading
Refractometers
Polariscopes
Gem Dialogue Color Comparison Charts
GemeWizard Software for color grading
Opal Smart Chart Software
Leverage Gauges
Thermo conductivity Diamond Tester
Ultraviolet Light Unit – Long and short wave
GIA Proportion reticule
Dichroscope
Chelsea Color Filter
Hanneman Filters
Angular Spectrum Evaluation Tools - AGS
Heavy Liquids
Ultrasonic Cleaner
Digital Cameras
Comprehensive Gemological Library
Shredder

Five (5) Stone Master Diamond Color Grading Set approved by the American Gem Society for an Accredited Gem Laboratory (GIA Set Number 531).

In order for us to qualify as an AGS accredited gemological laboratory, we must have this set of master diamonds that have been graded by GIA and AGS. A number of appraisers use CZ master comparison sets. These can change color over time and it is not comparing apples to apples. Settle for nothing less than a set of natural diamond masters.