Instrumentation
Detecting today’s increasingly sophisticated synthetic and treated gems require examination using highly advanced scientific instruments. IGPMA laboratories are equipped with powerful analytical tools similar to what can be found only at leading universities and national laboratories. This equipment allows us to examine material at high magnification in order to document gemological properties, chemical composition, spectral features, and other characteristics.
Accuracy
Every IGPMA laboratory operates under the same set of standard procedures and principles designed to ensure the objectivity and accuracy of every gem identification or grading report issued. These tenets are supported by research, highly trained staff, state-of-the-art security and monitoring features, and a suite of best-practices.
Database
Gem grading and identification records are archived in an extensive global database for ongoing study and future reference. This information gives IGPMA the ability to identify items that have been submitted to us previously for examination, and to assist law enforcement agencies from around the world in the recovery of stolen goods.
Standards
IGPMA developed and maintains the methods and best practices for evaluating diamonds, colored stones and pearls. As creator of the 7Cs and the IGPMA International Diamond Grading System, we established the common language for describing the quality of D-to-Z color diamonds.
Detection
Our laboratories examine more than two million diamonds, colored stones, and pearls each year. The data we collect forms the basis of our ability to detect new gem materials entering the marketplace.
Research
IGPMA has the world’s most comprehensive gemological research program; a staff with academic training and gem-testing experience; modern scientific instrumentation; and a superb collection of gem materials. For more than 20 years, IGPMA researchers have studied the scientific properties of gems to develop new methods of identifying natural, synthetic and treated gems.