Other gemmology laboratories

The French Gemmological Laboratory (LFG) is one of the world's leading laboratories for diamond analysis and certification, alongside GIA, HRD and IGI. Here we present this French laboratory and the various services it offers.

What is the French Gemmological Laboratory?

The French Gemmological Laboratory (LFG) is the oldest gemmological laboratory in the world. Founded in 1929 by the Syndical Chamber of Diamonds and affiliated in 2011 to the BJOP Union (the French Union of Jewelry, Jewellery, Goldsmithing, Stones and Pearls), its main mission is to examine gems to inform consumers and prevent illegal transactions and scams.

The French Gemmological Laboratory offers analysis reports for gems, diamonds, pearls and colored stones. These reports are as detailed as possible to best inform consumers. They include the characteristics of the gems (dimensions, shape, color) as well as their clarity grade.

The French Gemmological Laboratory emphasizes that each report is scientifically supported.

The history of the French Gemmological Laboratory

Originally, the French Gemmological Laboratory was created by the community of stone and pearl traders, at a time when cultured pearls were beginning to emerge. In 1929, nearly 300 fine pearl traders from the 9th arrondissement of Paris came together to request the creation of a service that could differentiate natural pearls from cultured pearls. The French Gemmological Laboratory was born.

Services of the French Gemmological Laboratory

The French Gemmological Laboratory offers the following services:

• Gem identification
• Establishment of a gem authenticity report (nature, color, treatments)
• Detection of fake gems and imitations
• Diamond grading based on the 4Cs, as done by laboratories such as GIA or HRD
• Special studies upon request, such as determining the nature of an inclusion
• In-depth research on your gem in collaboration with universities and research centers
• Training courses open to the public, covering various topics such as: "Becoming a gemmology expert", "Diamond grading", etc.

How is the French Gemmological Laboratory structured?

The LFG is composed of several departments. The administrative department manages the deposit and return of stones entrusted to the laboratory for analysis. Then, there are departments for the types of gems analyzed, such as the mixed diamond department or the colored stone department. These departments are managed by expert gemmologists. The role of laboratory director is currently held by Dr. Stefanos Karampelas, a globally recognized gemmologist who previously worked at the Gübelin Gem Lab in Lucerne and Gem Research Swisslab (GRS) in Meggen, Switzerland, and served as research director at DANAT (Bahrain Institute for Pearls and Gemstone) in Bahrain.

Diamond analysis by the LFG

The French Gemmological Laboratory produces comprehensive analysis reports on diamonds. It issues nearly 5,000 analysis reports per year. The analysis report provides a wealth of information, such as the shape, dimensions, fluorescence or type of diamond, treatments, and the famous 4Cs (grading system developed by GIA): cut, color, clarity, and carat weight. The analysis report also includes a diagram of the diamond with inclusions (plotting) and a proportions diagram.

For diamonds under one carat, the LFG provides an identification report, which contains the same information except for the inclusion diagram.

Steps of diamond analysis by the French Gemmological Laboratory

The LFG analyzes over a million mixed diamonds per year. When a diamond arrives at the laboratory, it is first registered and then weighed, allowing it to be identified. A number is assigned to the diamond to dissociate it from the client who provided it for analysis: this guarantees an impartial analysis. The diamond is then transferred to the laboratory where it undergoes various tests. It is officially weighed, photographed, and scanned in 3D. The diamond's inclusions are observed and photographed under a microscope. Other more advanced tests will identify the diamond, determine whether it is natural or synthetic, and find its geographical origin if requested by the client. The analyses carried out allow for the diamond's grading. At each analysis, several gemmologists provide their opinions.

Why have your diamond certified by the LFG?

For diamond certification, many first think of GIA or IGI, globally recognized gemmological laboratories. However, a diamond certified by the LFG also holds great value. Certification is carried out by at least 3 gemmologists, coordinated by Emmanuel Fritsch. He is a gemmologist and physics professor at the University of Nantes, internationally known for his work on gems (gem properties, their formation, the origin of their color, etc.).

The diamond certification process by the LFG, which has obtained ISO 9001 certification and the RJC (Responsible Jewellery Council) ethical, social and environmental certification, also follows a very rigorous protocol, according to an institutional charter based on the National Charter of Expertise (in line with the recommendations of the Ministry of Higher Education and Research).

Because it is the oldest gemmological laboratory in the world, the LFG has accumulated numerous documents forming an exceptional gem library: photos, scientific information, spectra... Its collection of several thousand gems supports its analyses, particularly the identification and origin of stones.

Finally, the LFG has cutting-edge technology, with state-of-the-art equipment and non-invasive techniques to analyze diamonds in detail without damaging them.

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The LFG, founded in 1929, is the oldest gemmological laboratory in the world. It specializes in the expertise of gems, diamonds, pearls and colored stones to inform consumers and prevent illegal transactions.

The LFG provides detailed analysis reports of gems, including their characteristics and clarity grade. It also performs gem identification, diamond grading, and offers training in gemmology.

Yes, Diamantaire Paris accepts diamonds with an LFG certificate for sale. They offer a free and confidential appraisal of jewelry, and you can contact them by email at [email protected] or visit directly at 43 rue Beaubourg, 75003 Paris.

The LFG is recognized worldwide for its reliable and secure scientific analyses. Although laboratories like GIA are often mentioned, a diamond certified by the LFG also holds great value thanks to its rigorous certification process.

Yes, Diamantaire Paris offers a full range of services for selling high-quality jewelry, including the appraisal and sale of antique jewelry. They also ensure transaction confidentiality and offer appraisal services for specific diamonds and unique pieces.

Diamantaire Paris, known for its expertise in high jewelry, offers a complete range of services for those looking to sell high-quality jewelry, including exceptional pieces from Van Cleef & Arpels. Our team of experts, with extensive experience and know-how, specializes in the appraisal and sale of jewelry, offering a reliable alternative to Sotheby's and other renowned auction houses.

We understand the importance and sentimental value of inherited jewelry. That is why we offer detailed and personalized appraisals, ensuring each piece receives the attention it deserves. Our expertise is not limited to modern diamonds; we also specialize in the sale and appraisal of antique jewelry, including rare pieces from the 18th century and 19th-century jewelry.

For those looking to sell specific diamonds, we offer appraisal and sale services for diamonds over 2 carats, as well as for unique pieces like tank rings. We understand that selling these precious items requires expertise and special attention, which is why we are committed to providing the highest quality service, ensuring each transaction is transparent and satisfactory.

At Diamantaire Paris, our goal is to provide an exceptional experience for every client. Whether you are looking to sell, appraise, or simply learn more about your precious jewelry, our team is here to guide you every step of the way. Visit our homepage to learn more about our services or to schedule a