Our Services
Our in-house PH.D scientists and archeologists perform research and authentications. Remember, it is important to deal with reputable galleries and dealers as well as to exercising intelligent due diligence. The authentication process usually begins with a thorough visual examination of the surface and material substance of the object. A strong raking light across the surface and an ultraviolet light can reveal things which may not be seen under normal lighting. Greater details can then be studied with magnifications from 2x to 200x before we move on to simple physical tests of the materials. In most cases this all that is needed to make a determination of authenticity. However, if it isn’t, we employ techniques such as X-ray Imaging examinations, X-ray Fluorescence, or Thermoluminescence Analysis to make a scientific determination. The cost of scientific authentication can save collectors a great deal of money in the long run and the certificates become a valuable part of the future of the object.
The authentication of carved stone and jade objects is very specialized and difficult because there is no scientific method capable of dating when a stone was carved. Therefore expertise in the knowledge of the ancient techniques of lapidary work is essential as well as the ability to distinguish the differences between ancient and modern tooling signatures. Surfaces of ancient tooling have been exposed to long-term weathering and chemical changes in their burial. There can be erosion, accretions and surface changes that fakers often try to duplicate but when it is done artificially it can be detected in a thorough examination. Our direct experience with handling thousands of objects and performing restoration, scientific analysis, consulting with experts and exhibiting collections in many museums has given us a valuable background for the process of authenticating ancient artworks. We have a great knowledge of the various materials and methods used by in the production of ancient art. We are certified associates of the finest laboratories in the world and can offer a variety of scientific analysis that is applicable to the study of antiquities.
Methods
Thermoluminescence analysis (TL)
TL is the scientific method of measuring the time since a clay object was last fired. It is used for dating all ceramics.
Radiography (X-Ray)
It provides a view of the object that can reveal restoration and conditions that are not seen with the naked eye.
Uranium, Thorium, Helium Analysis
It is the scientific method measuring the helium that is produced in gold by the decay of uranium and thorium. This measurement basically tells when the gold was last melted.
Hi-Res Email Service
We perform a preliminary service. You may send in hi-resolution images of your objects for a surface level analysis. Based on the results of this analysis we can either perform further tests, or this may be sufficient in some cases to establish a timeline of your artifacts.