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The history of the GCAL dates back to 1978 when Dr. Phillip
 W. West and Dr. Mannie D. Paine opened a 2,500-square-foot lab—known at the
 time as West-Paine Laboratories—in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Efforts from
 like-minded gemologists saw the lab rise in reputation and scale and in
 2000, the GCAL was officially established in New York City. From then onwards,
 it has been on a consistent growth trajectory, expanding into the 22,000 square
 feet giant entity that it is known as today.

The GCAL maintains expertise in gem analysis, with special
 interests in diamond grading and certification. Being the only gemological lab
 to guarantee their clarity and color grades, this analytical lab conducts all
 kinds of environmental testing procedures besides gem testing. The GCAL
 analytical testing processes encompass organic, inorganic, radiochemistry, and
 numerous other specialty testing techniques—all to uncover the level of
 contaminants in various products.

As expected, the lab employs cutting-edge technology to
 ensure that the entire of its findings has the least error margins. They
 presently employ over 70 scientists, each of whom brings a different level of
 experience and expertise to the firm. No matter the size or magnitude of a
 project, GCAL is always happy to take it up.

The GCAL grading reports are generally consistent with reputable
 firms like the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.petragems.com/education/gia-vs-ags/">GIA and the AGS</a>.
 Such reports are often as detailed as possible, and while drawing attention to
 a diamond’s Four Cs, they also go a notch higher by investigating other aspects
 of a stone. The finer details will be uncovered, such as the diamond’s actual
 size relative to the size that the report indicates, often illustrated in a
 proportion diagram noting the actual size and specific dimensions of the stone.

The GCAL reports usually feature close-up shots of the diamond's laser inscriptions for authenticity.

GCAL and the Sanctity of Their Reports

GCAL employs cutting-edge technology in its&nbsp;<a href="https://www.petragems.com/blog/how-to-grade-diamonds/">diamond grading processes</a>.
 To ensure maximum accuracy while avoiding conflicts of interest, the lab
 works in partnership with independent and internationally recognized
 laboratories. Each diamond presented at the GCAL labs is independently
 evaluated as it should be since every stone is unique.

The process begins by analyzing gems based on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.petragems.com/education/4cs-of-diamond/">the Four Cs</a>—color,
 cut, clarity, and carat weight. It then proceeds to examine the finer details,
 such as the polish and fluorescence. The process happens via microscopes and
 other equipment scientifically designed for accuracy and consistency. The final
 stage involves issuing a report based on the individual attributes of the
 diamond. The report will also feature a visual map pointing out any inclusions the
 evaluators uncovered in the diamond.

The GCAL evaluators assign a unique identification number
 to their reports for trackability and reference purposes. Moreover, for an
 extra layer of security, the technicians may add a microscopic inscription on a
 gem. To avoid suspicion, it is important to note that these inscriptions do not
 mar the quality of the stone. In most cases, evaluators consult their clients
 on their desired inscriptions. For instance, a client might have them inscribe
 a company logo, image, or a short slogan on the diamond.

How GCAL Works

The GCAL’s management team consists of the company’s CEO,
 Operations Manager, Technical Services Director, and IT Director, not to
 mention other departments such as sales and marketing. The company strives to
 foster a synergic relationship among all team members. It does not matter the
 position one holds; one must abide by the team philosophy and adhere to the set
 standards. This ensures the company’s accurate and consistent gem grading
 goals are always met.

Their history of excellence is evidenced by the many state
 certifications the lab enjoys. For instance, it boasts a 541380 certification
 by the North American Industrial Classification System (NAICS). Besides, the
 lab maintains Dod, ELAP, NELAP, and ISO 17025 certifications. It is also one of
 the few gem grading labs that perform the ILM-CLP and OLM methodologies.

Management Structure

GCAL maintains a single-facility business model that not
 only eases management work but also ensures that all the set objectives are
 met. Operating a single-facility model has numerous other advantages, as
 enumerated below:

1. It offers clients the peace of mind of knowing that
 their samples are handled in one location. They do not need to worry about any
 inconveniences that would normally result from paperwork, error, shipping, or
 extra points of contact.

The fact that samples are handled in one location also
 simplifies the Chain of Custody, thereby minimizing the risks of error.

2. The single-facility model makes it possible for GCAL to
 manage their clients’ needs, queries, and concerns in real-time. A client can
 work directly with project managers to expedite the grading process. The gem
 evaluators are always willing to listen and factor in their clients’ inputs.
 While they strive to deliver quality services, GCAL is also keen to understand
 their client’s requirements.

The lab endeavors to respond to concerns with integrity and
 urgency by keeping their client’s best interests at heart.

3. Lastly, the model ensures consistency when reporting
 across all parameters owing to the fact that all the testing and grading
 equipment is similar. Besides, the facility also uses similar Electronic Data
 Deliverable formats, one reason why it reduces the inconveniences a client
 would otherwise encounter when working with multiple-site gem labs.

What Keeps GCAL Going

When it comes to diamond grading, nothing matters more than
 the consistency of the issued reports. However, finding a lab that offers
 reliable reports is akin to looking for a needle in a haystack. Thankfully, one
 does not have to look any further. Entrust GCAL labs with any project and watch
 them deliver.

Final Thoughts

Buying diamonds comes with mixed feelings of excitement and
        fear. A buyer would want to invest in the highest-quality stone but may not be
        sure 

GCAL Certification: Diamond Grading Review

Sharif Khan

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