SSEF launches GemTrack™
GemTrack™ links a cut stone to a specific rough stone using gemmological techniques. GemTrack™ is based on a combination of crystallographic, structural, chemical and microscopic analyses that allow for detailed and potentially unique characterisation and fingerprinting of a rough stone. These sam
Facette No. 25 published and available online
The latest edition (2019) of SSEF’s Facette magazine has been published. It is now also available online as a PDF. This magazine brings you reports of our latest gemmological research and findings, courses and other SSEF activities. Read and Download Facette SSEF FACETTE NO. 25, 2019 FEATURED ARTICLES: Tracea
LMHC Presentation On Sapphires Heated With Pressure (February 2019)
This presentation summarizes the findings of the LMHC group of gemmological laboratories (that includes the Swiss Gemmological Institute SSEF) as of February 2019 on the issue of ‘Sapphire heated with pressure’. Download PDF of presentation
SSEF On-site testing in Hong Kong, 21 February – 04 March 2019
We will be in Hong Kong 21 February – 04 March offering our on-site testing services, during the upcoming Hong Kong Jewellery and Gem Fairs. Equipped with our mobile instruments and spectrometers, we will be testing coloured gemstones (no diamonds or pearls) at the Asia World Expo (AWE, 26 February – 02 Mar
New research on traceability and blockchain applications for gemstones
A recently published article by SSEF and co-authors in the Journal of Gemmology provides an extensive overview of blockchain, chain-of-custody and traceability in the gem industry. The full article can be downloaded here.
SSEF on-site testing in Bangkok, January 2019
We will be in Bangkok 07 – 11 January 2019 offering our on-site testing services. Our office is in the gem trade district at the Silom Road. Equipped with our instruments and spectrometers, we will be testing coloured gemstones. Please contact us to make an appointment. More information on our Bangkok se
LMHC makes progress on harmonisation of colour description and new treatment issues
Significant achievements in the harmonisation of wording on laboratory reports and the reporting of new treatments have been chalked up during the 29th meeting of the Laboratory Manual Harmonisation Committee (LMHC), which was hosted by the Gübelin Gem Lab in Lucerne, Switzerland, on November 14 and 15, 2018.
DNA Fingerprinting of Pearls, Corals and Ivory
A recently published article by SSEF and co-authors in the Journal of Gemmology examined applications of DNA fingerprinting of pearls, corals and ivory as a method in gemmology. The full article can be downloaded here.
Detecting low temperature heated rubies from Mozambique
SSEF has conducted an extensive research project to establish more specific criteria to detect low-temperature heat treatment, studying more than 200 unheated and heated rubies (rough and faceted stones) from Mozambique. In combination with close microscopic examination of the samples, specific infrared spectro
SSEF lecture in Hong Kong during GAHK Academic Conference (15th September 2018)
We will be giving a presentation updating the trade on new gemstone finds on September 15th in the afternoon, which you are cordially invited to attend. Please see below for further details. Dr. Michael S. Krzemnicki, director of SSEF, will be giving a presentation on the 15th of September 2018 entitled “On