Name: Opal Ethiopian Smoked 5.44 ct Natural, [Fiery play of color] — 18.4 x 11.4 mm
SKU: 12713

Question 1

What is Laboratoire Gem Quebec?

Accepted Answer

Laboratoire Gem Quebec is an independent gemological laboratory in Laval, Quebec, Canada. Founded by Pierre Lafrance, a GIA Graduate Gemologist (GG) and Fellow of the Gemmological Association of Great Britain (FGA), the laboratory provides gemstone certification, origin determination, treatment detection, and investment-grade gemstone supply using Raman spectroscopy, LA-ICP-MS, and Micro-CT imaging.

Question 2

Who is Pierre Lafrance?

Accepted Answer

Pierre Lafrance is a Graduate Gemologist (GG) from the Gemological Institute of America and a Fellow of the Gemmological Association of Great Britain (FGA). He founded Laboratoire Gem Quebec in Laval and has over 40 years of experience in gemstone evaluation, with field experience in mining regions across Sri Lanka, Madagascar, Tanzania, Colombia, and Thailand. He maintains professional connections with leading gemologists and colored gemstone dealers internationally.

Question 3

How does Laboratoire Gem Quebec authenticate gemstones?

Accepted Answer

The laboratory combines standard gemmological observation (refractive index, density, pleochroism, microscopic inclusions) with advanced instrumental analysis including Raman spectroscopy for molecular fingerprinting, FTIR and UV-Vis-NIR spectroscopy for treatment detection, LA-ICP-MS for trace element profiling and origin determination, and Micro-CT imaging for internal structure visualization. All certificates follow international grading standards.

Question 4

What is the difference between amethyst, citrine, and ametrine?

Accepted Answer

Amethyst (purple) and citrine (yellow/orange) are both quartz varieties. Ametrine is a rare gem where both colors coexist in the same crystal due to differences in temperature and iron oxidation state during crystal formation.

Question 5

Do you treat your gemstones to enhance their color?

Accepted Answer

At Lab Gem Quebec, we prioritize natural untreated stones. If a stone has undergone standard heat treatment (common for certain citrines or sapphires), this is clearly indicated on the product page and certificate.

Question 6

How long does a standard gemstone identification take?

Accepted Answer

A standard identification typically takes 3 to 5 business days depending on the complexity of the gem. We analyze the refractive index, density, pleochroism, and inclusions under microscope to provide a precise answer.

Question 7

Do the photos on the site represent the exact stone I will receive?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Unlike large retailers, each high-quality gemstone is individually photographed. What you see is what you receive. For small melee stones, photos are representative of the lot quality.

Question 8

Where is Laboratoire Gem Quebec located?

Accepted Answer

Laboratoire Gem Quebec is located at 1555 Boulevard de l'Avenir, Laval, Quebec, H7S 2N5, Canada. The laboratory serves clients across Canada with bilingual service in French and English. Contact by phone at 514-812-3445 or by email.