GIA to Issue Alexandrite Reports

RAPAPORT... The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) will expand its ColoredStone Identification & Origin Report services to include alexandrite. The report contains the stone's basic details, includingcut, shape, weight, measurement and color. In addition, it specifies whetherthe stone is natural or lab-grown, lists any detectable treatments, and offersa research-based opinion on the gem's geographic origin. "Offering an alexandrite Identification & Origin Reportcontinues GIA's mission to bring our research-based laboratory services to ourclients," Shane McClure, the GIA's global director of colored-stone services,said last week. "This service ultimately benefits the gem-and-jewelry-buyingpublic by providing reliable reports." The GIA also issues colored-stone identification reports forrubies, emeralds, Paraiba tourmalines and red spinels. Image: A ring with alexandrite stone. (Shutterstock)