GemTOF Analyses of Sapphires from Madagascar and Kashmir
In the beginning of 2017, gem testing laboratories started to receive cut stones from a new area for gem analysis and issuing reports. As stated in a trade-alert by SSEF in early 2017, some of this new sapphire material may resemble internal features of Kashmir blue sapphires, therefore careful microscopic inve
New Beads in Cultured Pearls
by Dr. Laurent E. Cartier, first published in Facette 21 (February 2014) We were presented with samples of a new type of pearl product from French Polynesia by a pearl trader during the 2012 BaselWorld show. These cultured pearls had unusual shapes, came in large sizes (up to 23 mm) and were characterised by
Corroded Pearls
by SSEF, first published in Facette 20 (January 2013) Although pearls, as organic gems, are commonly less stable than polished gemstones, we don’t often see pearls with obvious features of surface damage as a result of unfortunate care. A few months ago, however, we received for testing a very spectacular ca
Exceptional Colour Change Garnets Showing the Usambara Effect
by Dr. M.S. Krzemnicki, first published in Facette 21 (February 2014) Colour change, also known as“alexandrite effect” has been studied extensively since it was first described in 1831 for alexandrite (chromium-bearing variety of chrysoberyl) from Russia (von Pott, 1842). Since then, numerous minerals or g
Special conditions on SSEF-Ferrari shuttles to and from Hong Kong and Bangkok February 24th – April 30th 2020
In light of the difficult situation in Hong Kong and mainland China, and the postponement of the March Gem & Jewellery shows, SSEF has decided to support the trade by offering special conditions on SSEF-Ferrari shuttles from Hong Kong and Bangkok until late April. From 24th of February up until April 30th,
Colour varieties of gems: where to set the boundary
Colour varieties of gems: where to set the boundary? Published in InColor, 2020 Winter, 45, 92-95.
SSEF in Bangkok 13 – 17 January 2020
We will be in Bangkok 13 – 17 January 2020 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 offi
Origin determination and traceability: An overview for gemstones (2019)
Origin determination and traceability: An overview for gemstones (2019)