FAQs

General Testing Questions

We use reliable and secure courier services for returning gemstones. You can choose between standard or express shipping, depending on how quickly you’d like your stones returned.

We accept all major credit and debit cards, bank transfers, and digital payment options such as PayPal. For international clients, we also offer currency conversion services at checkout.

Once your gemstone has been submitted for testing, you’ll receive a unique tracking number. You can use this number on our website to check the current status of your gemstone testing and when the report will be ready.

Educational and Miscellaneous Questions

We use reliable and secure courier services for returning gemstones. You can choose between standard or express shipping, depending on how quickly you’d like your stones returned.

Yes, Girgem offers certification courses for those who want to deepen their knowledge of gemology. Check out our “Gemology Courses” page for more information on course content, fees, and enrollment procedures.

While we don’t sell gemstones, we can guide you on important factors to consider when purchasing one. We recommend reviewing our “Gemstone Guides” section to help you make an informed decision.

Certifications

Yes, we issue gemstone certification reports that verify the identity, characteristics, and treatments of gemstones. These certificates can be used for insurance, appraisal, or personal records.

Yes, our certifications are recognized internationally by gemstone buyers, sellers, and appraisers.

It’s recommended to certify gemstones before selling, insuring, or after any major repair. While a certificate doesn’t expire, some prefer to re-certify gemstones after significant time has passed or if there have been changes to the stone.

Miscellaneous Questions

Yes, we can test not only the gemstones in jewelry but also the metal to confirm if it is genuine gold, silver, platinum, or another material.

Yes, we offer expedited services for those who need urgent testing. Please contact us to arrange a faster processing time for an additional fee.

While we don’t directly offer insurance, our identification and grading reports can be used as official documentation when obtaining insurance for your gemstones.

If you have a bulk order of gemstones, please contact us to discuss customized pricing and turnaround time. We regularly handle large orders for gem dealers and collectors.

Yes, we can test materials such as glass, plastics, or any substances that are sometimes mistaken for gemstones, providing you with a clear identification report.

Gemstone Care

Proper care depends on the type of gemstone. We recommend regular cleaning using warm soapy water for most stones, and always avoiding harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners unless confirmed safe for your specific gemstone. Check our “Gemstone Care” section for detailed care instructions.

Yes, certain gemstones like amethyst, topaz, and opal can fade when exposed to direct sunlight over long periods. Refer to our care guides for gemstone-specific advice.

For most gemstones, a soft cloth and warm soapy water are safe. However, gemstones like pearls, opals, and emeralds require special care. Avoid using ultrasonic or steam cleaners unless confirmed safe for your stone. Visit our website for a full list of cleaning tips.

Grading and Reports

While we don’t offer formal grading for colored gemstones, we do provide identification reports. These reports detail the gemstone’s weight, size, shape, and color, as well as any natural or synthetic treatments. We focus on providing accurate information to help you understand your gemstone.

No, we don’t offer valuation or appraisal services. However, we do provide detailed identification and grading reports, which you can use as a reference when seeking an appraisal from a certified gem appraiser.

Our identification reports contain detailed information about your gemstone’s type, variety, origin (if identifiable), dimensions, weight, and any detectable treatments.                                    

Each section of your report is explained in detail. For example, we will describe the gemstone’s weight, color, shape, and any treatments found. We’ll also include a guide to help you understand each technical term used.

Yes! We can test gemstones that are already set in metal jewelry, such as rings, bracelets, or necklaces. If your stones are strung together in beads or any other form, we can test those too.

Absolutely! We can test uncut, rough gemstones to identify their type and assess their authenticity. This is a common service for gem collectors and sellers.

Yes, we test both natural and synthetic gemstones. Our reports clearly distinguish between the two and provide detailed information on their characteristics.

Yes, part of our testing process includes checking for any treatments, such as heating, fracture filling, or other enhancements that may have been applied to improve the appearance of the gemstone.

Shipping, Payments, and Support

We use reliable and secure courier services for returning gemstones. You can choose between standard or express shipping, depending on how quickly you’d like your stones returned.

We accept all major credit and debit cards, bank transfers, and digital payment options such as PayPal. For international clients, we also offer currency conversion services at checkout.

Once your gemstone has been submitted for testing, you’ll receive a unique tracking number. You can use this number on our website to check the current status of your gemstone testing and when the report will be ready.

Lab Services

Yes, we offer specialized testing services to determine the authenticity of diamonds. Our lab uses advanced equipment to verify whether a diamond is natural or synthetic.

Yes, we can identify lab-grown gemstones. Our tests can detect whether a gemstone is naturally occurring or produced in a laboratory.

We employ a variety of methods including visual inspections, advanced spectroscopy, and chemical analysis. The exact testing method depends on the type of gemstone and what needs to be evaluated.

Yes, we provide testing services for natural, cultured, and synthetic pearls. Our reports identify their origin and provide information about any treatments.

Specific Gemstones

Both are varieties of the mineral corundum. The red variety is called ruby, while all other colors (including blue) are called sapphire. They share the same hardness and general characteristics but differ in color.

In some cases, yes. Using advanced testing methods, we can determine the geographical origin of certain gemstones like emeralds, rubies, and sapphires. However, not all stones reveal clear information about their origin.

The value of a gemstone depends on factors such as its rarity, size, color, clarity, and whether it’s natural or treated. For an accurate valuation, you can bring your gemstone to a certified appraiser after receiving your identification report from Girgem.

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