Alpha Gem Lab provides independent, unbiased appraisals of diamonds, colored gemstones, and jewelry of all description. We do not buy or sell jewelry, nor are we affiliated with any retail jewelry store. Expert appraisals for insurance, tax, estate, charitable contribution, divorce or liquidation purposes. Appraisal services for individuals, executors, attorneys, accountants, bank trust departments, jewelers and insurance companies. Appraisals while you watch. Pre-purchase consultations. Gem identification. Damage reports and hypothetical appraisals for loss of undocumented items. Flat fees, not based on appraised values. Have microscope, will travel. We own a portable lab and can come to you. Keep in mind that there will be a portal-to-portal travel fee in addition to the appraisal fee. Our lab in Albany is designed using special lighting that provides optimum conditions for examining jewelry. Such lighting is not available in your home or office. The absence of such lighting must be noted as a limiting condition in the appraisal report First, an independent appraiser is fair and impartial. Second, a qualified independent appraiser has received training in both gemological science and valuation science. A Graduate Gemologist diploma from the Gemological Institute of America is only a first step. Valuation Science courses and membership in certain appraisal societies allow the appraiser to stay current with changing laws regarding appraisals, as well as developments within the gem and jewelry industry (i.e. enhancements, new simulants/synthetics).