Shanghai, China (October 2, 2024) – As the countdown to the 2024 CIBJO Congress in Shanghai continues, the organization’s Gemmological Commission has released a groundbreaking report aimed at standardizing the practices of gemmological laboratories worldwide.
The report suggests that CIBJO’s comprehensive Gemmological Laboratories Blue Book be adopted as a best-practices guideline for these laboratories. This could potentially lead to the creation of an international registry of laboratories that adhere to these standards.
The Need for Gemmological Laboratories Regulation
Currently, there is a lack of regulation governing gemmological laboratories in many countries. This means that anyone can establish a lab and offer services like gem identification and grading, regardless of their qualifications or experience. This poses a significant risk to both the industry and consumers.
CIBJO’s Proposed Solution
The Gemmological Commission proposes that the Blue Book serve as a manual for establishing recognized gemmological laboratories. This document aligns with ISO 17025 standards and provides specific methodologies and standards for the gemstone and jewelry industries.
According to Hanco Zwaan, head of the Gemmological Commission, the Blue Book outlines everything required to establish a reliable and responsible gem lab. It covers management and technical formalities, ensuring that labs operate independently, impartially, and without conflicts of interest.
A Work in Progress
The Blue Book is a living document, continuously updated to reflect advancements in knowledge and technology. It details the elements that determine the accuracy and reliability of testing and grading procedures.
CIBJO Acknowledgment
At the upcoming congress in Shanghai, the Gemmological Commission will discuss the possibility of creating a mechanism to recognize laboratories that comply with the Blue Book standards. This recognition would be listed alongside other bodies that have earned similar accreditation.
Importance of Independent Responsibility
It’s crucial to note that while the CIBJO Acknowledgment would provide a measure of assurance, it doesn’t imply any verification or recognition of specific results reported by individual laboratories. Each laboratory remains solely responsible for its activities.
Download the Gemmological Lab Report
For a complete copy of the CIBJO Gemmological Commission’s 2024 Special Report, please see below
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