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Microscope
Used to magnify the internal and external features of gemstones, allowing gemologists to closely examine inclusions, crystal structure, color variations, and other characteristics that can help identify the stone’s authenticity, durability and quality.
Refractometer
Measures the refractive index (RI) of a gemstone by utilizing the principle of total internal reflection. A distinct “shadow line” appears on a calibrated scale, corresponding to the gemstone’s RI, which helps identify the gemstone as different gemstones have different refractive indices.
Spectroscope
Identifies gemstones by analyzing the specific wavelengths of light that a gem absorbs, which appear as dark bands on a visible spectrum. It reveals the “fingerprint” of a gemstone based on its unique light absorption characteristics, allowing comparison with reference spectra.
UV Lamp
Longwave (LW) and shortwave (SW) ultraviolet (UV) light are used to examine a gemstone’s fluorescence, which is the color it emits when exposed to UV light. This helps identify potential treatments, distinguish between natural and synthetic stones, and detect inclusions or fillers within a gemstone.
Polariscope
Determines whether a gemstone is singly refractive (isotropic) or doubly refractive (anisotropic) by observing how light interacts with the stone when placed between two polarized filters.
FTIR Spectrometer
Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) is used to obtain an infrared spectrum of absorption or emission of a solid, liquid, or gas. An FTIR spectrometer simultaneously collects high-resolution spectral data over a wide spectral range, allowing for the identification of unknown materials and the analysis of their composition.
X-Ray Fluorescence Spectrometer
A non-destructive analytical technique used to determine the elemental composition of materials. This tool is highly sensitive and precise.
Raman Spectrometer
Illuminates a sample with a monochromatic laser, either in the visible or near-infrared range. The resulting “Raman effect,” unique to each molecule’s chemical composition and structure, is used to identify gemstones and detect treatments or synthetic materials.
Our Tools
What You Will Receive
Choose from three professional report formats tailored to your needs. The Full Report and Dossier deliver the same comprehensive documentation in two size options, while the Summary Card distills key characteristics into a convenient compact format. Each IGI report tells your stone’s story with authority.
GemPass is a discounted bundle pricing option for loose colored gemstones offered in packages of 50 or 100 reports.
With GemPass, each report is charged a discounted flat fee, regardless of the stone's carat weight or gem type. This significantly reduces the cost per report and provides upfront pricing for easy budgeting.
GemPass offers three report formats:
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Full Colored Stone Report (8 5" x 11"): Measurements, Weight, Species, Variety, Treatments, Shape/Cutting Style, Color and Transparency, Optical and Physical Properties, High-Resolution Image.
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Colored Stone Dossier (5" x 7"): Same information as the Full Report in a compact format.
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Color Stone Summary Card (3.75" x 2.25"): Everything above minus Optical and Physical Properties, delivered in a portable credit card format.
Note: Report formats cannot be interchanged within a GemPass package.-
No, colored stone origin determination is not included with GemPass. This service can be requested separately for an additional fee.
Reports are typically processed within 5-10 business days from the date the stones are received at either the IGI NYC or Los Angeles laboratory.
1. Activate Your IGI Account
• To submit stones, you must have an active IGI laboratory service account.
• An IGI representative will contact you within one to two business days to confirm your purchase.
• If you already have an active IGI laboratory services account, skip to #2.
• If you are establishing a new IGI services account, our team will provide you with all the necessary forms, including the federally required Anti-Money Laundering (AML) documents. Once completed and verified, you will be notified that your GemPass account is active.2. Submit Your Stones
• Wrap each gemstone in individual parcel papers or baggies.
• Include a memo with:
• Client name
• Main address (matching your IGI account)
• Primary account contact
• Report type requested for each stone (must match the format chosen at purchase)
• Return shipping instructions (if applicable)
• Any special instructions
Stones can be submitted in person or by mail to the IGI laboratory in either New York or Los Angeles.
AML requirements ensure compliance with financial regulations, including:
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Customer identification (KYC)
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Transaction monitoring
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Record-keeping
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Reporting suspicious activities
After activating your account, you’ll need to submit the required AML documents and fill out the necessary forms in order to submit your items.
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Shipping Addresses:
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New York
545 5th Avenue, RM 1100, New York, NY 10017
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Los Angeles
550 South Hill St, Ste. 1200, Los Angeles, CA 90013
Preparing Your Shipment:
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Wrap each item in individual parcel papers or baggies.
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Include a memo with:
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Client name
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Main address (matching your IGI account)
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Primary account contact
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Services requested for each stone
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Return shipping instructions (if applicable)
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Any special instructions
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GemPass is valid for 12 months from the date of purchase.
IGI utilizes advanced tools, including:
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Microscope: Examines inclusions, color variations, and gem structure.
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Refractometer: Measures refractive index for gem identification.
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Spectroscope: Analyzes light absorption to determine gem characteristics.
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UV Lamp: Identifies fluorescence and detects treatments.
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Polariscope: Determines refractive properties of gemstones.
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FTIR Spectrometer: Analyzes material composition and treatments.
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X-Ray Fluorescence Spectrometer: Determines elemental composition.
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Raman Spectrometer: Identifies molecular composition and treatments.
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After purchasing GemPass and activating your IGI account, report credits will appear on your receipts. You also can reach out to your customer service representative or to newyork@igi.org
You can reach out to our offices in NYC and LA.
New York Office
Attention: Scott Friedman
Email: newyork@igi.org
Phone: (212) 753-7100
Los Angeles Office
Attention: Dan Casucci
Email: losangeles@igi.org
Phone: (213) 955-0008
Frequently Asked Questions
What You Can Expect
A seamless journey backed by IGI’s industry-leading expertise. Choose a GemPass bundle today, then submit your stones with confidence — on your own schedule. Each gem receives meticulous screening in controlled conditions for consistent, reliable results. Every time.
