UK CENTRE OF EXCELLENCE FOR DIAMOND, GEMSTONE & PEARL REPORTS
AnchorCert Gem Lab is the leading independent centre of excellence for Diamond, Gemstone and Pearl identification. They offer a wide range of reports, pearl testing, gemstone identification and authentification. Plus laser inscription services. This provides the opportunity to deliver a unique, special message along with your gift. One that will last a lifetime!
STATE OF THE ART LABORATORY
AnchorCert Gem Lab has a fully equipped state of the art laboratory which is specifically designed to assess and provide reports for diamonds, gemstones and pearls. Its range of highly sophisticated equipment can accurately screen for, and positively identify, treated and synthetic diamonds and gemstones. Continuing technological investment keeps the laboratory at the forefront of pearl testing, diamond grading and gemstone identification in the UK.
GEMMOLOGICAL EXPERTISE
The AnchorCert service is provided by highly qualified Gemmologists who produce accurate, independent, expert reports. Their expertise in the identification of diamonds, precious gems and pearls is unrivalled.
PEARL REPORTS
Strings of pearls or loose pearls can be examined.
The Laboratory identifies:
- natural pearls
- beaded, cultured pearls.
- non-beaded, cultured pearls.
- imitation pearls.
Senior gemmologist at the AnchorCert Gem Lab , Anu Manchanda , explains some of the ways pearls can be enhanced and subsequently detected.
1. Staining and Dyeing Pearls
Pearls may be stained or dyed to change the colour that they would not be naturally. For example, pearls can be made to be grey or black using a solution of ammonia and silver nitrate and then exposing them to light. The gemmologist can detect staining or dyeing by looking down a tiny drill hole. X ray fluorescence tests are also used to detect staining and dyeing of pearls.
2. Irradiation
Gamma ray irradiation is another way to stain or dye pearls.
3. Coating
Pearls can be coated to enhance their lustre. Over time this will wear off to show the inferior lustre underneath. This can be detected under magnification.
4. Filling
pearls can be filled with glue or anything else to bulk them out to give them a larger appearance. This method can be detected using x-radiographs.
What is important for the jewellery industry is that any treatments to pearls are disclosed and reflected in the price of the pearl. The AnchorCert Gem Lab are always on hand for an independent assessment.
