The laboratory uses scientific instruments that deliver results of unmatched quality.
These instruments are periodically inspected and calibrated to ensure the reliability and accuracy of the results in accordance with the guidelines of the ISO 17025 standard.
The Laboratory uses scientific instruments that provide unequalled quality of results. These instruments are periodically checked and verified, guaranteeing the reliability and safety of results in accordance with ISO 17025 guidelines.
The laboratory’s technology, combined with its exceptional gem collection and library, makes it the French benchmark for gem analysis among professionals.
Research efforts are important in maintaining the LFG’s high level of expertise. They also make it possible to communicate on topical subjects to the gemmological community in order to keep it informed about new gem deposits, treatments and synthesis.
The basic instruments used in the laboratory are the polariscope, refractometer, dichroscope, Chelsea filter, UV lamp, hydrostatic balance, Geiger counter, 405 nm laser, magnets, etc.
Analytical instruments used at the LFG
Photography: acquisition of photos of gems
Microscopy: observation of gems and their inclusions, providing important data on the nature, treatment and origin of gems.
Metrology: acquisition of the mass and measurements of gems
Colour: characterisation of gem colour
Fourier transform infrared spectrometry (FTIR): mineralogical identification, search for treatments…
Ultraviolet-Visible-Near Infrared (UV-Vis-PIR) absorption spectrometry: analysis of the origin of colour, research of treatments and help in determining the geographical origin of gems.
Photoluminescence spectrometry: gem identification and treatment analysis
Raman scattering spectrometry: acquisition of Raman scattering spectra, mineralogical identification of the gem and its inclusions, treatment research
Chemical analysis: chemical composition, trace element research for mineralogical identification, research of treatment and help in determining geographical origin.
Radiography: X-ray imaging and observation of luminescence for the analysis of pearls and gem fillings
Luminescence imaging: observation of luminescence and gem growth morphology (natural diamond / synthetic diamond separation)
Automatic sorting: for natural/synthetic separation of mixed diamonds
Bibliographic resources: the LFG has an extensive library, which has been in place since its creation and is regularly updated through the acquisition of new works, enabling it to maintain its level of expertise. The LFG team actively participates in numerous international congresses, providing an opportunity to communicate on the research work carried out at the LFG and also to enhance its knowledge through international exchanges.
Gemmological reference collection: the LFG has a large collection of gems used as reference material for the laboratory and also as study samples for the training and research departments. This reference collection has been built up since the LFG was founded and is regularly enhanced through purchases, donations and collections from deposits.
