SSGL first proceeds to the analysis of gemstones with traditional/standard equipment. Further testing with advanced equipment is conducted if the result of the first analysis is inconclusive or if standard equipments are not suitable for certain specific analyzes. SSGL may subcontract the performance of data collection regarding chemicals or spectrometry to a third party but the data are analyzed by SSGL.
SSGL specializes in microscope examination of gemstones internal and external features to detect and identify the presence of treatments and the origin of rubies, sapphires, fancy sapphires, emeralds and spinels. Careful microscope examination gives positive results in more than 95% of cases; in such cases, to proceed to further testing with advanced machines is not meaningful. Customers should be wary to believe machines are more reliable than skilled and experienced gemologists as it is actually the opposite; machines results are often inconclusive and misleading with all interpretation left on the user based on complex datas with many unknowns.
SSGL is to disclosed on its reports if any advanced equipment has been used for testing. Shall there be no mention of specific equipment in the report, it is deemed to have been examined using standard equipment only. Upon request of client, SSGL may perform testing with advanced equipment resulting in a longer turnover and possibly extra charge.