FAQ

What is IIGJ Lab?

IIGJ Lab is a gem and jewellery testing and certification facility under GJEPC, offering advanced services for coloured gemstones, pearls, loose diamonds, and jewellery.

What is relationship of GJEPC & IIGJ Lab?

IIGJ Lab which was established for gemmological research and testing arm of the Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC).

What is GJEPC?

GJEPC, or the Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council, is the apex body of India’s gem and jewellery industry. Established in 1966 by the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Government of India, it was created to promote and expand the export of Indian gems and jewellery in global markets.

Vision : To make India the preferred global source for quality gems and jewellery

Mission : To enable every associations with the Indian gem and jewellery industry to reach their full potential of their business

What are the benefits of being a GJEPC member?
  • Access to international trade fairs and exhibitions.
  • Networking opportunities with global buyers.
  • Industry updates, training, and certifications.
  • Duty benefits and government schemes.
  • Credibility and trust in the global market.
What is the complete range of services of IIGJ Lab?

IIGJ Lab offers certification of entire range of gemstones including coloured stone and diamond mounted jewellery and pearls as mentioned below:

GemLite Service – Semi-Stone Certification

A cost-effective certification service for semi-precious stones, providing reliable identification and authenticity details while maintaining IIGJ Lab’s technical standards.

Jewellery Certification – Lab & On-Site

Screening and certification of diamond-studded and coloured stone jewellery to identify natural, synthetic, or treated materials, ensuring proper disclosure across manufacturing, retail, and e-commerce.

Origin Determination – Ruby, Emerald, Sapphire

Geographical origin determination of emeralds, rubies, and sapphires using advanced testing techniques, supporting transparency, value, and trust in high-value gemstones.

Pearl Identification – Natural or Cultured

Identification and classification of pearls to confirm whether they are natural or cultured, including saltwater and freshwater varieties, using non-destructive testing methods. 

Coloured Gemstone Certification – Loose, Packet Lot, String

Accurate identification of coloured gemstones with clear disclosure of treatments such as heat or other enhancements, helping the trade and consumers know exactly what they are buying.

Diamond Reports – Natural & Lab-Grown

Diamond grading and reporting based on internationally accepted 4Cs – Carat, Cut, Colour, and Clarity, clearly distinguishing between natural and lab-grown diamonds

What’s the updated Emerald certification service and how much does it cost?

IIGJ Lab’s Emerald certification is now split into Primary Service (detects presence/absence and extent of clarity enhancement: Insignificant / F1 / F2 / F3) and an Add-On Service (everything in Primary plus identification of the type of filler—oil or resin). Fees (incl. GST):

  • Primary Service: ₹1,300 (GJEPC members) / ₹1,600 (non-members)
  • Add-On Service: ₹1,800 (GJEPC members) / ₹2,100 (non-members)
Is there an urgent option for Emerald certification? Any applicable discounts?

Yes. An urgent processing surcharge of +50% applies to the above fees. CDC and Jewellers Association discounts continue as per existing policies.

What changed in the Ruby reports, how will treatments be described now?

IIGJ Lab has simplified ruby treatment descriptions to align with major international gem labs. Depending on the material observed, reports may state:

  • Natural Ruby (Natural Corundum): “Indications of heating and clarity enhancement with residue in fractures/cavities,” with extent noted (TE1–TE5 / F1–F3 as applicable). If lead is detected, the remark “Lead glass was detected.” is added.
  • Glass-Filled Ruby (Natural Corundum): “Indications of clarity enhancement by lead/bismuth/barium glass in fractures and cavities,” no quantification in this case.
  • Glass-Filled Ruby/Sapphire (Natural Corundum): For coloured glass in fissures with flash effect and bubbles; no quantification.
What are the instruments available in lab and its use?

IIGJ Lab is equipped with advanced, state-of-the-art gemmological instruments to ensure accurate identification, treatment disclosure, origin determination, and grading of gemstones, diamonds, pearls, and jewellery.

Advanced Gemmological Microscopes
Used for detailed visual examination of inclusions, growth characteristics & surface features in gemstones and jewellery.

LA-ICP-MS (Laser Ablation Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry)
Used for trace-element analysis and chemical fingerprinting, mainly for geographical origin determination of emeralds, rubies, and sapphires.

EDXRF (Energy Dispersive X-ray Fluorescence Spectrometry)
Used for non-destructive elemental analysis to support gemstone identification and material verification.

Raman Spectroscope (Laser Raman Spectroscopy)
Used for rapid, non-destructive identification of gemstones, synthetics, and certain treatments based on their molecular structure.

FTIR (Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy)
Used to detect treatments such as fillers, polymers, or fracture filling, and to differentiate natural and synthetic materials.

UV-VIS-NIR Spectrophotometer (Ultraviolet–Visible–Near Infrared Spectroscopy)
Used to analyse optical absorption features for gemstone identification and treatment detection.

SynthDetect (Synthetic Diamond Detection System)
Used for screening and identification of laboratory-grown diamonds, including HPHT and CVD, in loose and mounted stones.

AMS2 (Automated Melee Screening System – Version 2)
Used for high-volume screening of melee diamonds to separate natural diamonds from lab-grown diamonds efficiently.

Where are the Lab located currently ?

Delhi Lab: F-32/33, Flatted Factories Complex, Jhandewalan, New Delhi – 110055;
Jaipur Lab: SP-111A, RK Derewala Tower, KGK Campus, Sitapura Industrial Area, Jaipur – 302022.

Where is the collection center of IIGJ Lab ?

Currently IIGJ Lab is having it’s collection centres at
1) GJEPC, 3rd Floor, Rajasthan Chamber Bhawan, M.I. Road, Jaipur, 302003
2) Jeweller Association Jaipur, 252, Johari Bazar Rd, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302003

Is IIGJ Lab provide the courier facility from pan india to ship the gems, jewellery & peals for testing?

Yes, Courier services available pan-India with Ambe Express or Customer select any of the vendor or angadia.

Prices are high as per comparison of other Indian labs?

Prices are competitive and aligned with market norms, GJEPC established the IIGJ Lab to service the industry. It is a not-for-profit organization. IIGJ Lab is committed to provide service at reasonable fees.

What is CDC membership and its advantage to customers in terms of testing fees?

The CDC programme offers advantage to members, to get discounts on certification services i.e. 20%, 25% and 30% in the cost of membership at Rs. 3000, 5000 and 10000+GST for 1 financial year (Apr-Mar).

Why certification from IIGJ Lab?

GJEPC-project, under the ministry of commerce and industry, govt, of India, offers unbiased testing by using advanced instruments, experienced gemologists, and internationally credible methods.

What is precious and what is semi-precious gemstones and its difference?

Precious: Diamond, ruby, sapphire, emerald—rare and high value.
Semi-precious: Other gemstones like Amethyst, Citrine, opal, tourmaline—more common and generally less expensive.

What is colour stability test in yellow sapphire and why it is important?

It checks if the yellow colour remains stable under heat/light exposure, ensuring quality and preventing fading.

What is origin Certification of coloured gemstone?

The origin of a coloured gemstone refers to the geographical location where the gemstone was formed naturally within the earth. Origin is determined based on the stone’s unique chemical composition, internal features, and growth characteristics, which vary from one mining location to another. Origin does not indicate where the stone was cut or traded—it strictly refers to where it was mined.

Determining origin helps the trade and consumers understand the rarity, value, and historical significance of certain gemstones.

Origin of Key Coloured Gemstones:

Emerald : Emeralds are known for their deep green colour and clarity characteristics. Notable origins include Colombia, Zambia, Brazil, and Afghanistan. Colombian emeralds, in particular, are globally recognised for their colour and transparency, often commanding premium value.

Ruby: Rubies are valued for their red colour, ranging from pinkish red to deep red. Important sources include Myanmar (Burma), Mozambique, Thailand, and Madagascar. Burmese rubies are especially known for their vivid “pigeon blood” red colour.

Sapphire : Sapphires occur in many colours, with blue and pink being among the most popular.

  • Blue Sapphire : Major origins include Kashmir, Sri Lanka (Ceylon), Myanmar, Madagascar, and Australia. Kashmir blue sapphires are renowned for their rich, velvety blue colour and rarity.

  • Pink Sapphire : Commonly sourced from Sri Lanka, Madagascar, and Myanmar, pink sapphires are valued for their bright to soft pink hues and clarity.
IIGJ Lab provides origin determination of which stones?

Currently, Emeralds, Rubies and Sapphires – Blue & Pink.

Why we have to pay insurance charges from city office to lab?

Insurance covers risk during transit, protecting against loss or damage.

What is Turnaround time of IIGJ Lab?

Usually 1 to 3 days depending on service type.

Can reports be shared on WhatsApp?

Yes, digital copies can be shared via WhatsApp upon request.

Can you issue a duplicate report and what is the fee?

Yes, duplicates reports are issued for a nominal fee Rs. 300 per duplicate reports using the original report number.

Is the packaging safe for logistics stones?

Yes, secure cushioned packaging and insured courier are used.

Can we get a professional gemmologist for testing?

Yes, on-site gemologist services are available for bulk or special requirements in jewellery certification.

Is verbal certification available?

No, only formal written reports are provided.

What is pearl, what is saltwater and freshwater in pearl?

Pearl: Organic gem formed in mollusks. Saltwater: From oysters, rarer and higher value. Freshwater: From mussels, more common and affordable.

What is Natural and Cultured pearl?

Natural: Formed without human intervention, very rare. Cultured: Human-assisted nucleation, most pearls today.

What is Diamond grading and Identification?

Grading based on 4Cs (colour, clarity, cut, carat), identification of natural vs synthetic, and treatment detection.

What is Gemlite services in IIGJ Lab?

A quick-check service, identification of semi-precious gemstones, very useful for Rashi Ratan business.

Stone Covered in Gemlite services in IIGJ Lab?

Gemstones such as, Apatite, Beryl Varieties (except Emerald), Moonstone, Sunstone, Labradorite (Rainbow Moonstone), Amazonite, Fluorite, Garnet Varieties (Hessonite, Spessartine, Tsavorite, Almandine, Rhodolite), Hematite, Iolite, Kyanite, Lapis-lazuli, Magnesite, Malachite, Opal, Quartz Varieties (Amethyst, Citrine, Rock Crystal, Chalcedonies, etc.), Rhodochrosite, Rhodonite, Serpentine, Sillimanite, Sodalite, Kunzite, Spodumene, Pyrite, and Topaz, etc.

This service is available for stones in loose, mounted, or strung form.

What are the basic origin places of Sapphire?

Kashmir, Burma, Sri Lanka, Madagascar, Australia.

What are the basic origin places of Ruby?

Myanmar, Mozambique, Thailand, Vietnam, Afghanistan.

What are the basic origin places of Emerald?

Colombia, Zambia, Brazil, Afghanistan.

What is identification and treatment disclosure meaning in precious gemstone?

Identification

Identification confirms the gemstone species—such as emerald, ruby, or sapphire—and determines whether the stone is natural or synthetic. This is carried out using scientific gemmological testing to ensure the gemstone is correctly named and accurately classified.

In simple terms, identification answers the question:
“What is this gemstone?”

Treatment Disclosure

Treatment disclosure reveals whether the gemstone has undergone any enhancement processes to improve its colour, clarity, or durability. Common treatments include heating, filling, oiling, diffusion, or irradiation, all of which must be clearly disclosed.

In simple terms, treatment disclosure answers the question:

Gemstones are natures gift to mankind and are desirable for its beauty. It is possible to enhance the color and clarity of stones to make them look better with various treatments. The IIGJ Lab provides the information and let customer make informed choice.

What are On-site jewellery certification?

Certification done at client premises for mounted diamond jewellery.

What is studded jewellery?

Studded jewellery refers to jewellery in which gemstones or diamonds are mounted or set into a metal base, such as gold, silver, or platinum. These stones may include diamonds, coloured gemstones, or pearls.

How does IIGJ Lab certify studded jewellery?

IIGJ Lab certifies studded jewellery by scientifically testing the mounted stones without damaging the jewellery. The process includes:

  • Identification of each stone (diamond, coloured gemstone, or pearl)
  • Detection of treatments or enhancements, if any (Treatment can not be ascertained in mounted stones at all times.)
  • Screening for synthetic or lab-grown materials
  • Assessment of the jewellery as a complete piece

Based on the testing, IIGJ Lab issues a combined certification report that covers the grading of diamond as permitted by mountings, gem content.

Why do CDC discounts end at the financial year?

CDC discounts typically end at the financial year due to:

  • Compliance with organizational fiscal policies.
  • Renewal of schemes and pricing structures on annual basis
Can someone other than the submitter collect items and reports?

Yes. IIGJ Lab requires a signed authorization letter from the submitter or a self-attested authorization note on the back of the original acknowledgment receipt.
Please contact IIGJ Lab for further details.

Can damaged or broken stones be tested?

Yes. IIGJ Lab can test damaged or broken stones, provided they are suitable for examination. Observations will be made based on the condition of the stone at the time of testing.

Does IIGJ Lab grade filled, lasered, or HPHT-treated diamonds?
  • Filled diamonds: Not graded
  • Lasered and HPHT-treated diamonds: Grading reports are issued with full and clear disclosure of treatments
Does IIGJ Lab grade fancy-shaped diamonds?

Yes, internationally accepted cut grading system for fancy-shaped diamonds, IIGJ Lab comments only on symmetry and polish for such stones.

Does IIGJ Lab grade fancy colour diamonds?

No. At present, IIGJ Lab grades diamonds only within the D–Z colour range.

Does IIGJ Lab grade lab-grown diamonds?

Yes. Lab-grown diamonds undergo the same grading process as natural diamonds, with clear disclosure of their origin i.e. CVD or HPHT.

How is stone carat weight rounded?

As per international standards, stone weight is rounded upwards only when the third decimal place is 9.

  • Example: A stone weighing 1.998 ct is rounded to 1.99 ct
  • A stone weighing 1.999 ct is rounded to 2.00 ct
What do the terms ‘Minor’, ‘Moderate’, and ‘Significant’ mean on an identification report for a treated emerald?

These terms indicate the amount of filler (oil or resin) present within fractures of the emerald. They describe the degree of clarity enhancement detected in the stone.

Does IIGJ Lab issue appraisal or valuation reports?

IIGJ Lab issues only Identification Reports and Diamond Quality Grading Reports. The lab does not provide valuation or appraisal services.

Does IIGJ Lab grade coloured gemstones?

No. IIGJ Lab does not grade coloured gemstones.

Can rough stones be tested?

Yes. IIGJ Lab issues reports for rough (unpolished) gemstones and diamonds.

What is beryllium diffusion treatment and how does IIGJ Lab report it?

Beryllium diffusion is a heat-related treatment used to change the colour of sapphires and rubies. If detected, IIGJ Lab clearly discloses it in the report.

Can surface diffusion treatment in sapphires and rubies be identified?

Yes. Surface diffusion usually shows colour near the surface only. IIGJ Lab identifies and discloses this treatment when detected.

How does dyeing affect gemstones like jadeite, quartz, or chalcedony?

Dyeing is used to improve colour. When detected, IIGJ Lab clearly mentions dyeing in the report.