Advanced Gemmological Laboratory and Scientific Expertise in Quebec
 

Laboratoire Gem Québec is a private laboratory specializing in the scientific analysis, identification, and documentation of gemstones. In a market where natural stones, treated gems, and laboratory-grown diamonds coexist, our role is to provide clear, rigorous, and independent technical assessment.

Our mission is to offer private clients, collectors, and investors expert reports based on recognized analytical methods, helping document the authenticity, treatments, internal characteristics, and, where scientifically possible, the geographic indications of the gemstones submitted for examination.
 

Multidisciplinary Scientific and Gemmological Expertise
 

The quality of our reports is built on an approach that combines Earth sciences, applied gemmology, and advanced imaging.
 

Doctoral Expertise in Geology and Mineralogy
 

Our analytical work draws on advanced expertise in geology, mineralogy, geochemistry, and crystallography. This scientific foundation allows for rigorous interpretation of the chemical, structural, and optical characteristics observed in gemstones.
 

International Gemmological Qualifications
 

Our laboratory integrates standards derived from the leading traditions of international gemmology, including high-level professional qualifications such as FGA (Gem-A) and GG (GIA). This complementary background supports the application of internationally recognized examination protocols.
 

Structural Imaging and Advanced Radiography
 

The use of X-ray radiography and micro-computed tomography (Micro-CT) makes it possible to examine the internal structure of certain gemstones and pearls, detect features not visible through conventional optical observation, and strengthen gemmological interpretation.
 

Origin Analysis and Detection of Treatments
 

A gemstone’s value may be influenced by its origin, natural state, and the possible presence of treatments. Our laboratory applies several complementary analytical approaches to document these factors.
 

Origin Assessment
 

By combining microscopic inclusion analysis with data obtained through techniques such as LA-ICP-MS and EDXRF/XRF, we investigate signatures consistent with specific geological formations or regions of origin. Any conclusion regarding origin is formulated within the scientific limitations inherent to the material under examination.
 

Detection of Treatments
 

We examine gemstones for indicators associated with heat treatment, diffusion, irradiation, and fracture filling. Techniques such as FTIR and Raman spectroscopy help detect structural modifications and foreign substances at the molecular level.
 

Identification of Laboratory-Grown Diamonds
 

Our analytical protocols are designed to distinguish natural diamonds from CVD and HPHT laboratory-grown diamonds through specialized observation methods and instrumentation appropriate for this type of examination.
 

Instrumentation and Analytical Methods
 

The laboratory relies on a range of scientific tools intended for non-destructive or minimally invasive characterization, depending on the nature of the examination.
 

Raman, FTIR, and UV-Vis-NIR Spectroscopy
 

These methods are used to study composition, crystal structure, and certain modifications associated with treatment.
 

Micro-CT and X-ray Radiography
 

Internal imaging complements gemmological analysis, particularly for pearls, complex inclusions, and collector-grade gemstones.
 

Chemical Analysis by LA-ICP-MS and XRF
 

These techniques allow the study of trace elements and support the characterization of chemical signatures useful in gemstone identification and documentation.
 

A Rigorous and Transparent Approach

Internal test and analysis made by our scientist:

Stereoscopic microscope - Photomicroscope - Immersion microscope - Refractometer - Polariscope / polariscopy - Fluorimeter - Conoscope / interference figure sphere - Dichroscope - UV-Vis-NIR spectrometer - FTIR spectrometer - Raman spectrometer - Photoluminescence spectrometer - Analytical balance - Fiber optic light source - Darkfield lighting - Diffuse lighting - Long-wave UV lamp - Short-wave UV lamp - UV cabinet - Chelsea filter - Hanneman / Hodgkinson filter sets - Reflectometer - Hydrostatic balance / densimeter - Oblique lighting - Polarized lighting - Immersion cell - XRF / EDXRF - Immersion liquids and RI 1.81 - Microscope camera - High-resolution imaging - X-ray radiography - Micro-CT / X-ray tomography - WDXRF - XRD / X-ray diffraction - LA-ICP-MS - LIBS - SEM-EDS - EPMA / electron microprobe - Cathodoluminescence - DiamondView - DiamondSure - DiamondCheck - DiamondDock - Diamond Dossier screening instruments - Thermal conductivity tester - Electrical conductivity tester - Diamond / moissanite tester - Powerful magnet - Color chart