Ann Gems Gemstone Research Institute

Researching Earth's Gemstones

Discover the science, structure and brilliance behind natural gemstones.

Ann Gems Gemstone Research Institute

Precision in Every Observation

Careful, non-destructive examination using established gemological methods.

Ann Gems Gemstone Research Institute

From Rough Crystal to Finished Stone

Studying how formation, treatment and cutting shape what we see.

Gemologist examining a stone through a loupe
Faceted stone held in tweezers on a grading bench
Gemstone being polished on a lapidary wheel
About Us

We Are Leading the Future of Gemstone Research

Through science, precision and innovation, we advance the understanding of gemstones, from their natural formation to the way they are cut, graded and appreciated today.

At Ann Gems Gemstone Research Institute, we combine established gemological technique with rigorous method to uncover deeper insight into gemstone structure, clarity and origin. Our commitment to ethical standards means every result is accurate, transparent and relevant.

6

Gemstone Species Profiled

6

Core Research Areas

Gemstones

Explore the Gemstones We Study

Diamond

Diamond

Pure crystallised carbon formed deep in the mantle, studied for growth structure, clarity and light performance.

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Ruby

Ruby

Chromium-bearing corundum prized for saturated red colour and natural red fluorescence.

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Sapphire

Sapphire

Corundum in every colour but red, best known for blues caused by iron and titanium.

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Emerald

Emerald

Green beryl coloured by chromium and vanadium, with inclusion "gardens" that record its origin.

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Tanzanite

Tanzanite

Violet-blue zoisite from a single mining district, notable for strong pleochroism.

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Paraíba Tourmaline

Paraíba Tourmaline

Copper-bearing elbaite with vivid neon blue to green colour, studied for origin and chemistry.

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Our Expertise

Precision-Driven Gemstone Analysis

Our Process

How Ann Gems Works

Initial Consultation

We begin by understanding the stone, its background and the questions you would like answered.

Examination & Analysis

The stone is measured, examined under magnification and tested with the methods suited to it.

Findings & Discussion

Results are explained clearly, including what the evidence supports and where it is inconclusive.

Rough tanzanite crystal
Leadership & Vision

Driving Innovation in Gemstone Research

Our leadership is driven by a commitment to excellence, careful method and scientific advancement. Under the guidance of our Chief Executive Officer, the institute continues to build knowledge that serves researchers, the trade and everyone who values gemstones.

Nancy Ann Rollinson Chief Executive Officer
Testimonials

Trusted by Professionals Worldwide

“The clarity of their reporting stood out. Every observation was explained, and where the evidence was inconclusive they said so plainly.”

Dr. Michael Hartwell

Geologist

“Working with the institute deepened our understanding of coloured stone origin. Their reference work and attention to detail are excellent.”

Olivia Bennett

Gemstone Consultant

“Their inclusion mapping gave us a far better picture of the rough before any cutting decisions were made.”

Daniel Dawson

Lapidary & Cutter

“They helped us understand exactly what we had, from treatment history to quality. Professional, careful and easy to work with.”

Sarah Whitfield

Jewellery Brand Owner

“A thoughtful, methodical team. Their approach to spectroscopy and documentation makes them a valuable research partner.”

Prof. James Lindqvist

Research Scientist

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

We study the formation, structure and properties of natural gemstones, including diamond, ruby, sapphire, emerald and other coloured stones, using established gemological and spectroscopic methods.

Our work covers diamond and the major coloured stones, together with rarer species such as tanzanite and copper-bearing tourmaline. The Gemstones section describes each in more detail.

No. The examination methods we rely on are non-destructive, so stones are returned exactly as they were received.

Reach out through the contact page to discuss research partnerships, academic collaboration or a specific gemstone project.

Partner With Us for Advanced Gemstone Research

Advancing the understanding of gemstones through science, precision and innovation, from their formation deep within the Earth to the finished stone.

© 2026 Ann Gems Gemstone Research Institute. All rights reserved.

Nancy Ann Rollinson, Chief Executive Officer