Modern gemological laboratories use a wide range of equipment to ensure precise testing. In our laboratory, we work with high-quality, modern tools.
As it has been for many years, the microscope remains one of the primary tools of a gemologist. With it, specialists can determine the genesis of a stone, its origin, and the presence of certain types of enhancements. This is a fundamental instrument that becomes indispensable in the hands of a professional, despite its seemingly simple functionality.
The resolution of an electronic microscope exceeds that of a traditional optical microscope by 1,000 to 10,000 times, enabling gemologists to study stones and their inclusions in greater detail. These devices are undeniably more precise and equipped with various features that allow for a thorough evaluation of gemstones.
A refractometer measures the refractive index of light. With its help, specialists can identify a mineral based on its composition. This is because different minerals refract light rays differently.
An FTIR spectrometer measures how much light an analyzed sample absorbs at each wavelength. This helps determine the mineral's composition and origin. For example, gemologists can distinguish a lab-grown mineral from a natural one because their infrared interferograms will have different characteristics. This is a vital tool our laboratory uses for gem evaluations.
This method identifies the composition of a mineral using an analyzer. It directs rays onto the sample, causing it to fluoresce. The fluorescence rays are then analyzed, revealing the energy spectrum. Using this method, we can determine the exact composition of the mineral.
UV-Vis spectroscopy measures the absorption of ultraviolet (UV) and visible light by a sample. It is used to identify functional groups within a molecule. This method accurately determines which compounds are present in the mineral and in what quantities. The spectroscope is one of the gemologist expert's main tools.
The Helium Polish scanner from Octonus allows precise determination of diamond proportions, symmetry, and cut grade according to GIA, TU, and GOST standards. It builds a 3D model of the diamond and helps verify stones against documentation from other laboratories.
