When it comes to precious gemstones, authenticity and quality are of paramount importance. This holds true for Alexandrite, the enchanting colour-changing gem.
Getting your alexandrite stone certified is a crucial step in ensuring its true worth and genuineness. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of certifying your alexandrite stone, ensuring that it is recognized for its value and quality.
The Importance of Certification
Certifying your alexandrite stone serves various purposes, all of which are vital for both enthusiasts and collectors:
Authentication:
Certification verifies that your alexandrite is indeed genuine, and not a synthetic or imitation stone.
Quality Assessment:
It provides an in-depth evaluation of your alexandrite’s colour, clarity, cut, and carat weight, helping you understand its overall quality.
Value Determination:
Certification reports often include an estimated market value for your alexandrite, which can be crucial for insurance purposes or potential resale.
Peace of Mind:
Having a certified alexandrite allows you to enjoy your gem with confidence, knowing its true identity and value.
Steps to Certify Your Alexandrite
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to get your alexandrite stone certified:
1. Choose a Reputable Gemological Laboratory
Selecting the right gemological laboratory is the first and foremost step in the certification process. Look for a laboratory that is renowned for its expertise in gemstone identification and grading.
Accreditation by recognized organizations such as the American Gemological Institute (AGI) or the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) is a strong indicator of reliability.
2. Prepare the Alexandrite Stone
Before submitting your alexandrite for certification, ensure that it is clean and free of any dirt, debris, or residues.
Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as they could damage the stone’s surface. A clean stone is essential for accurate evaluation.
3. Submit the Alexandrite Stone for Certification
Contact your chosen gemological laboratory and inquire about their certification procedures. You’ll typically need to fill out a submission form that includes details about the stone, such as its origin, size, and any previous treatments it may have undergone.
Additionally, be prepared to pay a certification fee, which can vary depending on the laboratory and the stone’s value.
4. Package the Stone Securely
Once you’ve completed the submission process, it’s time to prepare your alexandrite for safe shipping. Carefully package the stone in a protective container, ensuring that it is well-secured to prevent any damage during transit.
Use materials like bubble wrap, cushioning materials, and a sturdy box to safeguard the stone.
5. Ship the Stone to the Laboratory
Follow the gemological laboratory’s shipping instructions precisely, including their designated address and any specific shipping instructions they provide.
To ensure the stone’s safety during transit, consider using an insured shipping method. This extra precaution can offer protection against loss or damage.
6. Await the Certification Report
Once the laboratory receives your alexandrite stone, its team of experts will put it through rigorous testing. Specialized equipment and expert knowledge are used to assess the stone’s authenticity, colour, clarity, cut, and carat weight.
This comprehensive evaluation culminates in a certification report that outlines the stone’s characteristics and findings.
7. Review the Certification Report
Upon receiving the certification report, take the time to carefully review its contents. Verify that the information accurately reflects your alexandrite stone’s details, including its attributes and any potential treatments.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding the report, don’t hesitate to contact the laboratory for clarification.
8. Store the Certification Report Safely
The certification report is a precious document that provides crucial information about your alexandrite stone. Keep it in a secure and easily accessible place, along with your alexandrite.
This report serves as a valuable piece of documentation for insurance purposes, potential resale, or simply to authenticate the stone’s identity and value.
Conclusion
Certifying your alexandrite stone is a fundamental step in establishing its authenticity, quality, and value. It offers peace of mind, knowing that your cherished gem is genuine and recognized for its worth.
Whether you’re an avid gemstone collector or simply an admirer of the enchanting beauty of alexandrite, certification ensures that this unique gem receives the recognition it truly deserves.
Also Read: What is Alexandrite Stone
