Methods and Instrumentation

Methods and Instrumentation

Our gemologists work according to the laboratory code drawn up by the CIBJO (World Jewellery Confederation) – an organisation that seeks to maintain standards throughout the gemstone industry, from the mine to the marketplace. The gemstone identification protocols of the lab correspond to those described by CIBJO’s “Blue Book,” ensuring that standards conform to those of the wider industry.

For diamond terminology, the ISO NEN–en–ISO 18323-2015 is essential. This standard defines a set of permitted descriptions for the diamond industry that consumers find easy to understand. It also provides definitions designed to maintain consumer confidence and provide clarity for traders. 

All gems are processed through a laboratory that complies with ISO–IEC DIS 17025-2017, a set of general requirements that set standards for testing and calibration laboratories. These include the guarantee that work is consistent, impartial and competent – essential considerations for any organisation involved in the testing of gemstones.

The extensive range of laboratory instrumentation available comprises: 

Microscopes
Refractometers
Diamond standards and lighting for grading
Density determination scale
Polariscope
Reflection measurement 
Thermal conductivity measurement 
X-ray
Spectrophotometer
Raman   

With this instrumentation, the chemical identity of a broad array of gemstones can be ascertained as well as any treatments applied to them.