The Gemological Institute of America announced a new
technology that enables laboratories to assess much larger groups of pearls more
quickly and in greater detail than any previous technology.

After months of tests and evaluations, micro-CT X-ray units
that produce high-definition 3-D images of individual pearls have been
installed. The units allow the GIA to gain fully rotational 3-D images of the
internalgrowth structures of pearls in 15 to 20 minutes.

The technology is in addition to the high-resolution
real-time 2-D radiography that the GIA has used in pearl testing for the past
several years. Both micro-CT and real-time microradiography are processes that
examine the internal structures of small objects in minute detail, which
iscritical in determining whether a pearl is natural or cultured.

“We are confident these state of the art units will give
unparalleled service to the pearl industry,” Tom Moses, GIA senior vice
president of lab and research, said in statement.

 
Photos courtesy of GIA

“This equipment reflects GIA’s 80-year commitment to pearl
research, providing the public and trade with the most advance pearl
identification, using the most innovative and sophisticated technology. Kenneth
Scarratt, Nick Sturman, and the rest of the pearl identification team have more
than 100 total years of hands-on experience examining and identifying almost
every pearl type,” Moses said.

To receive the latest jewelry news and blogs every day in
your inbox, subscribe to JCK’s e-newsletter here.

JCK