The issue of colour digital grading was widely discussed at the meeting of the Gemmological Commission. The debate followed a presentation by Menahem Sevdermish of the digital colour language in his GemeWizard system. According to Mr. Sevdermish, a digital system enabling precise colour grading and communication is possible.
The computerized system can provide precise colours of all stones, he said, adding that his company had worked together with the GIA to develop it. “It is a digital record of colours. Digitalisation is the future,” he said.
Gemmological Commission PresidentHanco Zwaan said that, regardless of CIBJO’s position on colour grading, digital colour detection methods already exist and he would like to explore further whether it is possible to pinpoint colours for certain of commercial terms used in the trade. But it is necessary to identify other factors that are considered when applying those commercial terms and to formulate standards for lighting and viewing techniques.
Mr. Zwaan made it clear that the Gemmological Commission does not have a preference for any particular system.
Douglas Hucker, CEO of AGTA, asked if CIBJO or the Gemmological Commission was intending to endorse commercial terms. “If a lab wants to pursue this language, that is okay, but are we saying CIBJO is getting behind it?”
James Riley commented that in any case labs are developing digital methodologies and those organisations that do not know about them will look to CIBJO for information.
Thomas Lind suggested a motion that the Gemmological Commission look into how these labs are using these terms and present a report to the Commission next year. The motion was passed unopposed. “CIBJO is not determining the terminology but looking at how labs are using this digital communication,” he said.
Among the other issues mentioned at the meeting were developments concerning lead-glass filled ruby – and a GIT report on the introduction of “organic ruby,” the enhancement of emeralds after certification, and tanzanite nomenclature in the Gemmological Commission Blue Book, and a short update regarding the Laboratory Manual Harmonisation Committee.
Photo Caption: Gemmological Commission PresidentHanco Zwaan addressing the commission. Together on the podium with him are Claudio Milisenda (left) and Pornsawat Whatanakul.