Over the past 25 years, GCAL has stood at the forefront of advancing grading standards and fostering gemological expertise. This milestone is more than a marker of growth - it represents a sustained commitment to excellence, trust, and meaningful progress.

Founded on Truth and Accountability
Founded in New York in 2001 by Donald and Pamela Palmieri, Gem Certification and Assurance Lab was built on a clear principle. Grading should serve the truth, protect the consumer, and stand behind its conclusions. From the beginning, GCAL challenged the idea that a grading report is simply an opinion on paper. The goal was to bring more rigor, transparency, and accountability to the process.

Advancing the Science of Grading
Over time, GCAL continued to expand what grading could measure and communicate.
The acquisition of Diamond Profile Laboratory strengthened the ability to assess light performance, including optical brilliance and symmetry. The addition of Gemprint introduced forensic identification, reinforcing chain of identity and verification. GCAL also expanded optical analysis to include scintillation and fire, creating a more complete understanding of real world performance. Each step was built on the same focus. Measure more. Understand more. Deliver results that can be trusted.

Setting the Standard
GCAL’s focus on accountability is closely tied to its commitment to standards. In 2008, GCAL became the first North American diamond and gemstone laboratory to achieve ISO IEC 17025 accreditation. In 2012, the forensic designation was added. GCAL is also a certified member of the Responsible Jewellery Council, reflecting a broader commitment to responsible practices.

Innovation with Purpose
Innovation at GCAL has always been practical and focused on improving how diamonds are evaluated.
In 2021, GCAL introduced 8X, redefining cut grading for round brilliant diamonds by evaluating both craftsmanship and optical performance at the highest level.

This approach now extends to additional shapes
including oval, princess, pear, marquise, and radiant, with continued expansion underway.

A New Chapter with Sarine
In 2023, GCAL entered a new phase through its partnership with Sarine Technologies. This brought together GCAL’s long standing approach to strict grading with Sarine’s AI driven systems and traceability. GCAL by Sarine reflects both continuity and progress, combining established expertise with new tools to improve accuracy and scalability.

Our Commitment: Truth Above All
We always care about one thing—the truth. We don't play "grading games." If diamond sellers feel our standards are too strict, we remain unwavering. What we do is simple: provide accurate grading certificates that we stand behind with a money-back guarantee. We do not cut corners.
Our culture has been defined by a relentless commitment to precision. Every diamond is measured, analyzed, photographed, Gemprinted, and graded to the highest standards. From 0.20 carats to over 50 carats, whether natural or lab-grown, from flawless to included, each diamond receives the same meticulous attention.

Looking Ahead At GCAL by Sarine, the goal remains the same. Continue to improve grading, expand globally, and contribute to the future of gemology in a meaningful way. Thank you for being part of our story.