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.
We use standard gemological instruments such as the refractometer, polariscope and microscope, alongside Raman, infrared and UV-Vis-NIR spectroscopy, X-ray fluorescence and optical scanning.
Each stone goes through visual inspection, measurement of optical and physical properties, microscopic study of inclusions and, where needed, advanced spectroscopic testing.
In most cases, yes. Natural and synthetic stones differ in growth structure, inclusions and trace chemistry, and these differences can be detected with the right combination of tests.
Not always. Stones from different deposits sometimes share the same characteristics, and when the evidence is inconclusive we say so.
We welcome enquiries from researchers, students, collectors, jewellers and others with an interest in gemstone science.
Send a message through the contact form, email us, or call any of the numbers listed on the contact page.
We aim to respond to enquiries within a few working days.
Advancing the understanding of gemstones through science, precision and innovation, from their formation deep within the Earth to the finished stone.
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