Gem Lab Identifications & Authentications

  • Determining the exact identity of a gemstone, e.g., corundum (ruby or sapphire)

  • Is the gem natural?, i.e., mined from the earth; then, is it treated or untreated?

  • Or synthetic, lab-created?, i.e., same mineral elements but made in a lab, not earth-mined

  • Or Imitation?, e.g., red glass for ruby

 

 

Gem Identification & Authentications - By Mail or In-person

If you're located outside the Asheville area, please know that you can send your gems & jewelry by mail! Gems and jewelry are routinely sent through the USPS safely and reliably. Every day thousandsĀ  of gem parcels are in transit - among members of the gem trade. Whether it's for a potential sale (memo), to re-stock supplies, for appraisals, identifications, etc., the USPS (and other carriers like UPS, FedEx, etc.) are safe, secure, and insurable. Don't hesitate to use them for your needs.

Using non-invasive / non-destructive instruments (see below) we'll use our modern gem laboratory to study and determine the identity of your gemstone(s), giving you the following information, and a conclusion & summary:

~ Trade name | Variety (where necessary) | Species/Group, e.g., Flame-fusion synthetic star corundumĀ (Trade name); Synthetic star ruby (Variety); Synthetic corundum (Species)

~ Details of the relevant lab tests and measurement, if appropriate.

~ Whether the stone is earth-mined (natural) or man-made (synthetic, lab-created)

~ Whether evidence of treatment or enhancement is detected

PLEASE NOTE: (1) No valuation of the subject gem is provided in this service; valuation is a separate service, i.e., an appraisal. (2) Turnaround time is usually about 2 days: lab assessment is made on day of receipt or the following day.

$65.00 USD