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Since 1987, Imperial Gem Lab has directly served British Columbia families and individuals needing reliable and professional appraisal and gem identification. The insurance industry as well as  jewellers and law firms, call on IGL’s expertise and impeccable credentials for service.

IGL provides a full appraisal service on fine jewelry and watches, for purposes of estate, probate, insurance and divorce settlement. Couples often book appointments with IGL’s Master Gemologist Appraiser ®, Harold Lindsay, for the assurance of knowing that their recent engagement and wedding ring purchases are of the quality and value stated on their certificates. 

Our Commitment to You

Imperial Gem Labs mission is to provide you with an unbiased, accurate assessment of your jewelry and gemstones using the latest appraisal technology available.

Clients of IGL enjoy the peace of mind of ‘While-You-Wait’ service. With treasured pieces in sight at all times during our signature Same-Day-Service, you are assured your valuables are safe, in the same condition you brought them in to the IGL Lab. Plus you can enjoy the process and your post valuation conference with the master gemologist appraiser, Harold Lindsay.

You are guaranteed acceptance of your appraisal reports by insurers due to Imperial Gem Labs industry wide reputation for accuracy, reliability and integrity. 

Harold Lindsay master gemologist

Harold Lindsay
Master Gemologist Appraiser ®

Registered Master Valuer, Graduate Gemologist, G.I.A., Certified Appraisal Professional, CJA

Learn more about Harold

Harold's Profile
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Why work with an ASA Appraiser

Imperial Gem Lab has the only ASA Canadian Gems & Jewelry appraiser in Canada.

The American Society of Appraisers (ASA) is a world renowned and respected international organization devoted to the appraisal profession. ASA is the oldest and only major appraisal organization designating members in all appraisal specialties.

When you hire an ASA-accredited appraiser, you are assured the best valuation expertise on the market, because ASA accredited appraisers bring experience and are held to the highest standards in the profession.

When do you need a personal property appraiser?

diamond ring appraisal by harold lindsay

What you can expect at your in person appointment

  • A discussion with master appraiser Harold Lindsay on the purpose of your appraisal or report. This helps determine the nature of the appraisal.
  • An estimate of charges before moving forward. Your fee is based on the time involved, or the number of pieces requiring appraisal, but not the percentage of the value.

IGL is committed to protect your valuables by providing premium same-day service and the most accurate information available for appraising jewellery and gemstones. Your valuables are never kept overnight

Find Imperial Gem Lab conveniently located in Vancouver at the corner of Boundary and Kingsway at the Central Park Business Centre (across from Central Park and the Telus building). Metered and free parking is available around and below the building.

Clarity grading

Using our new digital microscope cameras now provides us with an opportunity to record minute details of your diamond and present them to you printed on your appraisal report or as jpeg files on CD.

Obtaining a Quality Analysis Report  can helpful in the buying or selling of jewelry. Our advice and services will help you save time and effort for a task that at times, can seem daunting.

imperial gem labs technology

Colour and Cut Grading

Diamonds are best assessed under controlled lighting conditions while out of their mounting. The diamond’s fluorescence is also checked to determine any effect on its apparent colour.

The cut grade of a diamond is one of the its important attributes. This refers to the overall manner in which a diamond reacts with light as well as the finish of the stone.

Do you have jewelry in your home which you are looking to resell?