European Gemological Laboratory opens Toronto's first full-service Gem Lab

Toronto, May 12, 2003: - European Gemological Laboratory has opened Toronto's first full-service gemological laboratory. The new lab offers professional gemstone identification, certification and validation of gemstone and jewellery purchases for trade professionals and the public.

The lab is part of the EGL USA Group, a well established, privately owned independent laboratory that is headquartered in New York with offices in Los Angeles and Vancouver.

Unlike existing gem labs in Canada, the European Gemological Laboratory in Toronto offers a full range of services, from providing identification for mounted and loose diamonds as well as pearls, jade and other colored gems. The lab can provide country of origin for colored gems and is the only one in North America that grades and certifies rough diamonds.

"Our focus is on providing excellent customer service, education, and innovative customized documents and display materials that will help our clients become more knowledgeable and profitable," said Branko Deljanin, Director of Canadian Operations. "We also reach out to educate the consumer about gemstone certification via a comprehensive advertising and public relations campaign."

European Gem Lab is one of few major labs worldwide doing advanced research in gemology. Earlier this year, it was awarded a significant grant from the JCK Jewelry Industry Fund in the U.S. for its work in the identification of diamonds treated by the high pressure high temperature process (HPHT). "With more and more diamond treatments, coloured stone enhancements, and synthetic gemstones on the market, it is essential that our lab can identify new treatments as they come along and to alert the trade via free seminars, which we offer at trade shows," said Deljanin.

European Gemological Laboratory also offers laser inscription of both mounted and loose gemstones, using some of the most advanced and safest equipment in the industry.

The Toronto lab is located at 55 Queen Street East, Suite 500. Independent appraisal services are provided by its affiliate, Universal Gemological Services. For more information, call toll free 866-665-1200. For the Education Department call toll-free 866-630-0400. Contact: Michael Forbes/Advance Planning/ MS&L/416-967-3702.