Are the stones damaged or destroyed during testing?
Gemstones and semi-precious stones are examined exclusively using non-destructive methods. No scratching or removal of parts is required.
For unknown rocks consisting of multiple minerals, it may be necessary to use mineralogical methods that require sawing and polishing the rock. This procedure involves additional costs and is performed after personal consultation with you.
What testing equipment is available to you?
In addition to standard gemmological tests such as refraction index measurment or density, we also use state-of-the-art non-destructive analytical methods such as infrared and UV/VIS spectroscopy, X-ray fluorescence analysis (XRF), and laser spectroscopy (Raman).
Can you also identify synthetics and imitations?
We can identify both synthetic and imitation stones, as well as all types of manipulation of real stones, such as dyeing, firing, or plastic impregnation.
What about rocks?
Rocks (mineral mixtures) can generally also be examined with non-destructiv methods. Furthermore, for the precise identification of all minerals in a rock (e.g., to find the correct petrological name), it is possible to make a mineralogical thin section, perform a microprobe analysis, or an X-ray structure analysis.
What exactly do I need to do to have my stones tested by you?
The stones to be tested have to be packed in a solide parcel or padded envelope. Send it to: EPI-Labor, Riesenwaldstr. 6, 77797 Ohlsbach. Don't forget to include your address and email address. For valuable items, you can also arrange for a courier service.
As soon as the stones arrive at the EPI laboratory, they will be registered. You will then receive an email confirmation of receipt with the registration numbers and a cost estimate. You can find the estimated costs in our price list.
After receipt of payment, we will get to work.
As soon as we have reached a conclusion, you will receive an informal email with the test results.
After the test is complete, we will return the tested sample to you using the same method it arrived here (parcel or courier).
How does this test work?
First, we determine the identity of a sample. In a second step, we examine the stone for artificial alterations in color or clarity. Both identity and any artificial alterations in properties are part of our test results.
Do you also provide a determination of origin ?
Researches for the origin of a stone is not part of our service.