Authentication & TL Testing

Leading Authentication Services for Ancient & Ethnographic Art

Artemis Testing Lab is the only laboratory in the United States exclusively dedicated to the scientific authentication of ancient and ethnographic art. No other facility in the country offers the same combination of specialized expertise, advanced equipment, and focused service tailored specifically to the needs of collectors, dealers, and institutions in this field.

Under the direction of Serge Fayeulle, PhD, a leading expert in archaeological materials science, our lab offers a full suite of analytical tools—including Thermoluminescence (TL) testing, X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF), and traditional X-Ray imaging. These techniques allow us to accurately determine the age, composition, and authenticity of objects ranging from Pre-Columbian ceramics and African tribal masks to Greek terracottas and Asian sculpture.

Unlike general-purpose labs or overseas facilities, Artemis Testing Lab provides guaranteed, fast-turnaround results—typically within just a few days—so our clients can move forward with confidence. Whether you’re verifying an item for sale, building a museum collection, or navigating a legal inquiry, our results offer the scientific assurance you need, backed by nearly 30 years of leadership in the field.

Advanced Authentication Techniques

• Thermoluminescence (TL) Testing →    Scientifically dates ceramic, pottery, terracotta, earthenware, and bronze casting cores, confirming whether an artifact is ancient or a modern reproduction.
• X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) Analysis →  A non-destructive method for determining the elemental composition of materials, most commonly used for metal authentication.
• Traditional X-Ray Testing → Provides detailed internal imaging of pottery, metal, and stone, revealing hidden repairs, modern materials, and the extent of restoration beyond what is visible to the naked eye.

With state-of-the-art technology and expert analysis, Artemis Testing Lab ensures that every authenticated artifact meets the highest standards of integrity.

Our Guarantee – Accuracy, Reliability & Confidence

Our Services

Thermoluminescence (TL) Testing
Scientific Authentication for Archaeological Pottery

Watch an educational video about TL Testing, by our own Bob Dodge and Dr. Serge Fayeulle

Thermoluminescence (TL) testing is a proven scientific method used to determine the authenticity of archaeological ceramics and pottery. Over time, pottery absorbs natural radiation from its surroundings. By extracting a small sample and heating it, we measure the faint blue glow (TL signal) emitted. The intensity of this glow reveals how much radiation has accumulated, allowing us to estimate the approximate age of the artifact and confirm whether it was truly fired in antiquity.

What Materials Can Be Dated Using TL?
TL testing is applicable to a wide range of fired ceramic materials, including:

• Pottery, earthenware, and terracotta
• Porcelain and stoneware
• Casting cores of bronzes

Artemis Testing Lab can authenticate artifacts from any culture, provided they were fired above 500°C and contain TL-sensitive minerals (quartz or feldspar), along with naturally occurring radioactive inclusions (such as uranium, thorium, and potassium-40).  Note: More recent ceramics may be more challenging to test due to lower TL accumulation.

Accuracy of TL testing / dating
In most cases, when a sample is drilled and burial conditions are unknown, the typical margin of uncertainty is ±25%. This level of precision is highly reliable for authentication purposes, as it clearly determines whether a piece was fired in antiquity or is a modern reproduction. Our testing is further enhanced by advanced computer technology, ensuring accurate and scientifically validated results.

PRICING: 1-5 objects – $350 per object  |  5+ objects –  $300 per object

• Up to 3 sample cores taken per test
• Comprehensive printed report including full results and graphs
• Shipping costs to/from the lab not included

Quantity discounts available for dealers, collectors, and institutions. Items can be shipped to us, or we can come to you for on-site testing.

For more information, or to schedule TL testing, contact Artemis Testing Lab today.

X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) Spectroscopy
Advanced Material Analysis

Watch an educational video about XRF Testing, by our own Bob Dodge

What is XRF Spectroscopy?
X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) spectroscopy is a non-destructive analytical technique used for elemental analysis of archaeological and historical materials. This widely applied method helps determine the chemical composition of artifacts with precision.

Using XRF analyzers, we measure the secondary X-rays emitted when a sample is excited by a primary X-ray source. Since each element emits a unique set of fluorescent X-rays, this technique provides a clear and accurate breakdown of an artifact’s material composition.

How XRF Enhances Authentication & Provenance Analysis

XRF testing is used to:

• Identify the elemental composition of historical artifacts.
• Determine provenance by analyzing mineral sources and raw materials.
• Assess manufacturing techniques and fabrication technology of ancient objects.
• Detect modern reproductions and counterfeits through material inconsistencies.

What Materials Can Be Tested with XRF?

XRF is highly versatile and can analyze a wide range of materials, including:

• Metals (bronze, gold, silver, copper alloys)
• Ceramics and pottery
• Stone artifacts
• Glass and pigments

This method provides uniform detection across most elements in the Periodic Table, measuring concentrations from 100% down to just a few parts per million (ppm).

Safe, Non-Destructive Analysis
One of the biggest advantages of XRF testing is that it is completely non-invasive—it does not damage or alter the tested artifact in any way. This makes it ideal for museum collections, private collectors, and researchers looking for detailed material insights while preserving the integrity of their objects.

PRICING: $275 per item

• Comprehensive printed report detailing exact material composition, distinguishing ancient vs. non-ancient
• Ideal for analyzing gold, silver, bronze, copper, and other metallurgical compositions, as well as pottery, ceramics, and stone
• Shipping costs to/from the lab not included

For more information or to schedule XRF testing, contact Artemis Testing Lab today.

X-Ray Analysis
Revealing the Hidden Details of Artifacts

Traditional X-ray analysis provides a highly accurate, non-invasive method for examining the internal structure of pottery, metal, and stone artifacts. By penetrating surfaces with X-rays, this technique reveals details that are otherwise invisible to the naked eye, offering invaluable insights for authentication and conservation.

What Can X-Ray Analysis Detect?

• Hidden repairs – Identifies past restorations or structural reinforcements.
• New materials – Pinpoints modern additions or replacements.
• Extent of restoration – Distinguishes between original components and later modifications.

This method is widely used by museums, collectors, and conservators to ensure the authenticity and integrity of artifacts while maintaining their preservation.

PRICING: $75 per item

• Detailed internal imaging to reveal cracks, voids, inclusions, and structural modifications
• Provides insights into materials used and construction techniques
• Shipping costs to/from the lab not included

For more information or to schedule X-ray testing, contact Artemis Testing Lab today.

Fast & Reliable Testing Results

With any of our authentication services, you can expect to receive detailed test results within 7-10 business days from the time we receive your item(s). Our commitment to accuracy, efficiency, and scientific integrity ensures you get trusted results you can rely on.

If you’d like to learn more about Artemis Testing Lab’s authentication services, please contact us today.

We look forward to applying our expertise to assist you.