Gemstone Testing & Analysis
Scientific testing of precious and semi-precious gemstones to evaluate physical constants, optical behavior, and material composition.
What is Gemstone Testing?
Gemstone testing is the systematic measurement of physical, optical, and crystallographic properties to characterize a gemstone material. Through precise diagnostic testing, IGL determines whether a gem is natural, synthetic, or an imitation.
Our laboratory utilizes refractometers, polariscopes, hydrostatic balances, spectroscopes, and high-power stereo magnification to inspect every specimen submitted.
What IGL Examines
- Refractive Index & Birefringence
- Specific Gravity & Density
- Pleochroism & Optic Character
- Micro-Inclusions & Growth Features
- Ultraviolet Fluorescence Response
Testing & Identification Process
A step-by-step scientific examination framework applied to all gem species.
Optical Constants
Refractometry to measure exact light bending parameters, optic sign (isotropic vs anisotropic), and birefringence.
Inclusion Profiling
Stereo magnification to examine crystal growth patterns, fluid inclusions, twin planes, and surface treatments.
Spectral Analysis
UV-Vis optical spectroscopy to identify absorption bands corresponding to natural chromophores or artificial treatments.
Natural vs. Treated Gemstones
Distinguishing unheated natural gemstones from heat-treated, glass-filled, or lattice-diffused specimens is crucial. Our laboratory findings state clearly whether a gemstone shows diagnostic indications of thermal alteration or enhancement.
Who Should Use This Service?
- Gemstone traders requiring objective trade reports
- Retail jewellers verifying inventory authenticity
- Private buyers & collectors seeking independent documentation
- Auction houses requiring verifiable reports
Discover the IGL Difference
Professional Testing · Trusted Certification · A Brighter Tomorrow