Tutorial CD-ROM
The Swiss Gemmological Institute, known as SSEF, has developed a practical new product for the industry. Along with its regular gemstone testing work, it has now produced a `Tutorial CD-ROM for manufacturers and retailers alike to improve gemstone grading knowledge with courses specialized in rubies, emeralds, pearls and soon to be released diamonds. Dr. Lore Kiefert of the Colored Stones Department explained that the Tutorial CD follows closely the courses the institute provides and are regularly upgraded with all the new pertinent market information. For more information about the Swiss Gemmological Institute and the new Tutorial CD:
E-mail: [email protected]


3-D Software
GemVision Corporation has developed a new DG Matrix software that revolutionizes the use of CAD/CAM in the jewelry industry. The breakthrough in DG Matrix is in the software that was created by jewelers for jewelers, incorporating all the tools any jeweler might need. It provides a menu that gives you total control and speeds up the creation of even the most complex designs. For more information:
E-mail: [email protected]


Plus Appraisals
Del Idar-Oberstein, the German Diamond and Gemstone Laboratories of Idar-Oberstein, now offers a third possibility to its gem testing and grading programs to include an Evaluation Report. The appraisal is available for diamonds, colored gemstones, pearls and jewelry. This additional service is unique among laboratories and is accompanied by a certificate of guarantee.
For further information:
E-mail: [email protected]


U.S. Postal & Gem Material
Testing was conducted by the GIA with the cooperation of SureBeam, which makes the irradiation equipment the U.S. Postal Service is currently using. This is the same type of ionizing radiation that is often used intentionally to change the color of some gem materials. The GIA's President, William E. Boyajian explained, “The GIA strives to remain on top of issues that can affect the gem and jewelry industry. Our information is that the Postal Service is currently scanning only a small amount of mail using this process, which has been limited to letters and other flat mail.” Nonetheless, this is certainly important information and risks can be partially avoided by choosing packaging that would be less likely to undergo irradiation.
For more information see: www.gia.edu/gandg/special-issue-112701.cfm

Source: International Jeweler
March 2002 issue