SSEF’s dedication to research
The foundation’s commitment to scientific research underpins its collective expertise and reliability in gemstone testing. Since its establishment in 1972, SSEF has been at the forefront of significant advancements in gemmology. SSEF has developed various gemmological instruments and methods enabling the scientific detection of treatments and identifying gem origin. SSEF continues to lead research projects in collaboration with universities, laboratories, and industry partners to further gemmological knowledge. The foundation is committed to share its expertise and practical skills, beyond publications in reputed international scientific journals: It shares its findings with members of the trade, industry professionals and enthusiasts through publications (e.g. their annual Facette Magazine) and presentations. In addition, SSEF fosters gemmological training through intensive and efficient fast-track courses.
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Ongoing research programs
Diamonds
Analytical instrumentation for synthetic diamond and diamond treatment detection
Developing technology for assisted diamond grading
Origin determination of gemstones
Origin determination of ruby, sapphire and other gemstones using GemTOF
Research on spinel from worldwide occurrences
Paraiba tourmalines
Detection of heat treatment in corundum using zircon inclusions and Raman microprobe
Pearls
Developing new methods (e.g. tomography) to separate natural from cultured pearls
Age dating and DNA fingerprinting of pearls
Colour authenticity of pearls