The Evolution of the Modern Gemmological Laboratory

This article traces the development of the modern gemmological laboratory from 1925 to the present day, a 100-year journey that has seen not only a gradual and then explosive evolution in the application and maturity of the science, but also importantly the standing that gemmological laboratories have enjoyed within the gemstone industry and the scientific community. The passionate people involved have made tremendous contributions to the understanding of gem materials, and their willingness to embrace the latest technology and attract successive generations to the field has made the study of gem materials within gemmological laboratories one of the most exciting theaters of life.