Description
Dr Lore Kiefert – FGA
Expect the Unexpected
Some interesting gemlab cases
May 15, 2026 at 9am Los Angeles, 6pm Paris, 9.30pm Mumbai
Dr. Lore Kiefert has compiled a number of subjects that she came across her long career in three major gemmological laboratories (SSEF, AGTA GTC, Gübelin Gem Lab) plus her recent experience in an appraisal lab. Among the many subjects, here is a small selection: covered are individual gemstone groups such as Paraiba tourmaline or corundum (Ti- vs internal diffusion in sapphires), but also unusual pieces are presented. A historic ring, a large star sapphire cluster, faked reports, damages by laser welding, black Ethiopian opals, Distinction of black pearls from Mexico and Tahiti, difference between Aquamarine and Maxixe beryl, lost “Faberge egg”, as well as a number of imitation cases, like diamond pieces glued on topaz and glass.
In 1994, Dr Lore Kiefert joined the SSEF Swiss Gemmological Institute where she became Director of the Coloured Stones Department. In 2005, Dr. Kiefert moved to New York to head the AGTA Gemmological Testing Center as Laboratory Director and returned to Europe to join the Gubelin Gem Lab as Chief Gemmologist in 2009. In 2020, she opened her own consulting company.
