Open a card’s details to see how the test works and how we interpret it.
01 / Precious-metal jewelry
Niton XL2 XRF analyzer
Metal composition, without a scratch test.
Our X-ray fluorescence analyzer helps us assess precious-metal composition without removing metal for the reading. We do not scratch or acid-test your jewelry.
How it works & what it tells us
How it works
The instrument excites atoms in the area examined and measures the characteristic X-rays they emit. This helps identify elements and estimate their proportions in the tested area.
Why it matters for your item
That gives us evidence beyond a karat stamp. We interpret the reading with construction, solder, plating and other appropriate checks; a surface reading does not establish the composition of every part of an item.
02 / Coins & bullion
Sigma PMV Pro
Check more than appearance and weight.
We use Sigma electrical-resistivity measurements for compatible precious-metal coins and bars, alongside weight, dimensions and visual examination.
How it works & what it tells us
How it works
The instrument measures an electrical response and compares it with the expected range for the selected metal or alloy. We choose a suitable sensor and measurement setup for the sample.
Why it matters for your item
It adds a useful material check when assessing bullion. Sigma is not an X-ray machine or a jewelry tester, and one passing reading alone does not guarantee authenticity.
03 / Diamond screening
GIA iD100
A better-informed starting point for your diamond.
Our GIA iD100 screens eligible loose and mounted stones to support natural-diamond identification and identify when further examination is needed.
How it works & what it tells us
How it works
The instrument analyzes a stone’s response to light using spectroscopic technology. Compatible stones receive a screening result that our specialist interprets alongside the rest of the examination.
Why it matters for your item
Natural and laboratory-grown diamonds can have different markets. Screening helps us choose appropriate next steps. A referral is not a finding that a stone is fake or laboratory-grown; screening is also not a full grading report.
04 / Mounted & loose diamonds
OGI DiaTrue CXL2
Look closely at pieces with multiple stones.
DiaTrue adds another dedicated diamond-screening resource, including for compatible jewelry with multiple small stones as well as loose stones.
How it works & what it tells us
How it works
The system uses optical responses to screen supported diamonds and highlight stones that warrant further examination. We select an appropriate setup for the stones and mounting.
Why it matters for your item
A ring or bracelet deserves more than a quick look at its largest stone. Screening can guide a more informed assessment, within the instrument’s supported color, size and mounting conditions. Referred stones need additional checks.
05 / Diamond cut & proportions
Sarin DiaScan S+
Measure the shape behind the sparkle.
Our DiaScan S+ diamond analyzer measures the geometry and proportions of suitable loose diamonds. This adds useful detail to a discussion of cut and how the stone presents.
How it works & what it tells us
How it works
Optical scanning captures measurements of the diamond’s shape and proportions. Our specialists interpret those measurements alongside the stone itself, its condition and any available grading report.
Why it matters for your item
Cut is about more than carat weight. Proportion measurements help us explain characteristics relevant to the assessment, but this instrument does not establish natural origin or issue a GIA grading report. Software estimates are not laboratory certification or an automatic valuation.
06 / Gemstone identification
Raman spectroscopy
Explore the material behind the appearance.
Raman spectroscopy gives our specialists another way to investigate a gemstone or inclusion when visual observations alone leave questions.
How it works & what it tells us
How it works
A laser interacts with the material. Small shifts in the scattered light form a spectrum that can be compared with reference spectra to help identify the material.
Why it matters for your item
Similar-looking stones can be different materials. Spectroscopic information supports identification, but it is not a universal answer to geographic origin, treatment or natural versus laboratory-grown origin. We combine it with other appropriate observations.
07 / Colored gemstone examination
GEM Instruments Duplex II refractometer
Use optical evidence to narrow the possibilities.
Our Duplex II refractometer helps measure how a suitable gemstone bends light. Refractive-index readings add evidence beyond color and appearance.
How it works & what it tells us
How it works
For a suitable accessible surface, the instrument uses controlled optical contact to obtain refractive-index readings. When measurable, changes observed as the stone is turned can provide additional information about its optical properties.
Why it matters for your item
Many different materials can look alike. These readings help narrow possible identities when interpreted with other tests. Some stones are outside the instrument’s range or unsuitable for this method; a refractometer alone does not determine natural origin, treatment or value.
08 / Initial gemstone screening
Presidium Gem Tester
Choose the next check with more information.
Our Presidium Gem Tester uses thermal-conductivity screening to help narrow the possibilities when examining a suitable gemstone.
How it works & what it tells us
How it works
The probe measures how the tested material conducts heat. Our specialists interpret the response with magnified examination and other appropriate gemological observations.
Why it matters for your item
Some materials have overlapping responses. This is a screening tool, not a conclusive identity certificate. It does not establish natural versus laboratory-grown origin, and we do not use it alone to distinguish diamond from moissanite or price a stone.
09 / Gemstones & craftsmanship
Gemological microscopes
Details that a quick glance misses.
Our Kassoy and American Optical microscopes help our gemologically trained staff look beyond what is visible to the unaided eye, then explain the details that matter to your piece.
How it works & what it tells us
How it works
Magnification and suitable lighting reveal internal features, surface condition, wear, settings and workmanship. We select useful viewing angles and lighting for the question, rather than treating every observation as an answer on its own.
Why it matters for your item
A close look can reveal condition or construction details that inform an offer, repair or custom-design discussion. We explain those findings in plain language. Microscopy complements other tests; it does not authenticate every stone or establish its origin by itself.
10 / Diamond examination
Fluorescence & color examination
Consider how a stone responds to light.
Our A&A fluorescence and color examination equipment helps our specialists compare appearance and observe fluorescence under appropriate lighting.
How it works & what it tells us
How it works
Controlled viewing conditions and ultraviolet-light observations add information to the broader gemological examination. Our specialist interprets the observations rather than relying on appearance in ordinary room lighting.
Why it matters for your item
Color and fluorescence can be relevant to a diamond’s assessment. These observations alone are not proof of origin and do not replace a laboratory grading report.
11 / Mechanical watches
Watch timing equipment
Understand how a movement is running.
Timing equipment helps our watch specialists assess operating behavior, including rate, beat error and amplitude where the movement and setup support those readings.
How it works & what it tells us
How it works
A timing instrument listens to the escapement and analyzes the pattern of its beats. Readings are interpreted with the movement type, winding state and testing position.
Why it matters for your item
Operating condition can affect an offer or a service discussion. A timing result is a snapshot, not proof of authenticity or a guarantee of future reliability.
12 / Watch condition
Water-resistance testing equipment
Assess sealing condition appropriately.
Our watch specialists can use suitable water-resistance checks when the watch and evaluation call for them.
How it works & what it tells us
How it works
The test method and limits must suit the watch’s construction and condition. We discuss the appropriate check rather than treating every watch as suitable for the same procedure.
Why it matters for your item
Seals and condition change over time. A test result is not a promise of permanent waterproofing, and water resistance does not establish a watch’s authenticity.
13 / Precise weighing
Mettler Toledo balances
A weight you can discuss, not a guess.
Our precision balances support appropriate weighing of jewelry, precious metals and loose stones. Our equipment includes a balance carrying a County of San Diego inspection seal.
How it works & what it tells us
How it works
We use the appropriate balance, units and weighing procedure for the item. The measured weight is considered with the materials and construction.
Why it matters for your item
A piece’s total weight is not the same as its pure-gold weight or diamond weight. We explain how weight, composition and non-metal components affect our assessment.
Sizing & measurement tools
Ring, bangle and bracelet sizers, calipers, templates and Presidium gemstone gauges help us measure dimensions and fit. For suitable mounted stones, a gauge can support a weight estimate; an estimate is not the same as weighing a loose stone.
Watch-crystal checks & bench tools
We examine watch crystals with appropriate testing tools as part of the watch’s overall assessment. Case-back tools allow suitable access when needed. Our watch specialists select the right approach for the watch rather than opening every case.
Power-reserve assessment
When appropriate, our specialists assess how long a properly wound mechanical watch runs. This takes observation over time; it is not an instant timegrapher reading or a check we claim to complete during every visit.
Loupes & additional gem testing tools
Loupes and suitable gemstone testing tools help us cross-check workmanship, condition and physical or optical properties. We choose the instrument for the question. A conventional diamond tester alone does not establish that a diamond is natural rather than laboratory-grown.
Entrupy & Watch CSA resources
We use Entrupy for supported handbags and Watch CSA resources for watches where appropriate, alongside hands-on inspection. Not every item receives every service or a separate certificate. Any applicable authentication fee is discussed and agreed before authentication begins.
CAD, models & jewelry-making tools
Our team and specialist network work through designs, materials, dimensions, wax or resin models and finishing with you. Ring and bangle sizers help us discuss fit; bench tools support the appropriate making, setting and repair work. Our making experience also helps us understand how a piece is built and what condition details matter.
