Discussion with Dr. Jeffrey Post, Smithsonian Institution Figurehead
In the world of gems and jewellery, advanced testing techniques have become indispensable, ensuring authenticity, transparency, and fair valuation. This evolution is particularly significant for diamonds, as the industry grapples with an increasing number of laboratory-grown diamonds and treatments.
The Smithsonian Institution, a distinguished caretaker of its collection, has been at the forefront of this revolution. The institution's goal is to foster growth through doing good, and donations to its gem collection can range from large collections of minerals to single pieces of jewellery or gemstones.
One of the most notable advancements in gem testing is the use of sophisticated instrumentation. Tools like the GIA iD100 provide quick, accurate testing that distinguishes natural diamonds from lab-grown ones, simulants, and some treated stones in under two seconds with 100% accuracy. This innovation aids jewelers in-store and enhances consumer confidence.
Reputable labs such as PGL also employ instruments like UV fluorescence and diamond detectors to differentiate natural diamonds from CVD/HPHT lab-grown stones and identify treatments. These labs serve both authenticity and quality verification.
The Gemmological Association of Great Britain emphasises training in advanced gem testing techniques to select appropriate methods tailored to identifying a wide range of unknown samples. This reflects the industry's focus on constantly evolving technical expertise.
As we look to the future, the demand for reliable, fast, and accessible testing methods will only grow. Advancements in multi-omics and machine learning, although primarily in biological fields, hint at a future where complex data integration may improve gem testing by better understanding material properties and treatment signatures.
The industry will likely see further development of portable, user-friendly devices that can provide near-instant verification for jewelers and consumers, ensuring full disclosure and trust in the provenance and treatment of gems.
The Smithsonian's collection, which includes the famous Hope diamond, has grown primarily through donations rather than purchases. The Hope diamond, a rare, blue diamond, has been subjected to advanced testing, generating publicity and providing insights into its formation, origin, and differences from other diamonds. Despite a tiny hole created during a non-destructive test, the Hope diamond remains in the Smithsonian collection for continued study and learning.
Located on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History continues to grow at a steady rate, thanks in part to private donations and endowments. The institution's commitment to research and education, coupled with its dedication to making its collections accessible to the public, makes it a beacon of knowledge and wonder for visitors from around the world.
[References] [1] GIA (2016) Laboratory Services. Available at: https://www.gia.edu/lab-services [Accessed 15 July 2021]. [2] PGL (2016) Diamond Certification. Available at: https://www.pgl-diamonds.com/certification [Accessed 15 July 2021]. [3] GAA (2016) Courses. Available at: https://www.gem-a.com/courses [Accessed 15 July 2021]. [4] S. O'Donoghue (2016) The Future of Gem Testing. Available at: https://www.gia.edu/gems-gemology/gems-gemology-august-2016-future-gem-testing [Accessed 15 July 2021]. [5] S. O'Donoghue (2016) The Future of Gem Testing. Available at: https://www.gia.edu/gems-gemology/gems-gemology-august-2016-future-gem-testing [Accessed 15 July 2021].
- In the gem and jewellery industry, the Smithsonian Institution's gem collection expansion, through donations, signifies a commitment to furthering knowledge and education.
- The iD100 instrument, used by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), is an essential tool in the industry, accurately distinguishing natural diamonds from lab-grown ones in under two seconds.
- Reputable laboratories like PGL use innovative methods such as UV fluorescence and diamond detectors to verify the authenticity and quality of diamonds, contributing to consumer confidence.
- The Gemmological Association of Great Britain prioritizes training in advanced gem testing techniques, emphasizing the importance of technical expertise in the industry's evolution.
- Future advancements in multi-omics, machine learning, and portable devices in the medical-conditions, health-and-wellness, and technology sectors may significantly improve gem testing by better understanding material properties and treatment signatures.
- The development of portable, user-friendly devices will likely revolutionize the industry, ensuring transparency, trust, and full disclosure of a gem's provenance and treatment.
