Dubai, March 2009: International Diamond Laboratories has introduced grading services for coloured stones and jewellery to capitalise on the growing consumer demand for certified coloured stones like rubies, emaralds and sapphires.
According to Peter Meeus, CEO of International Diamond Labortories, “In the last decade there has been an increase in demand from consumers and retailers for coloured stone certificartes. This is especially due to the prevalence of synthetic stones and availability of new coloured stone treatments which makes it difficult to know whether the stones are genuine. We are happy to introduce gemstone certification which will assure consumers of the quality and value of the products.”
The laboratory has appointed Francesco Natale, a specialist in coloured stone grading, as the Chief Gemmologist- Coloured Stones & Jewellery. For the last five years Natale worked as Lab Director in IGI, Dubai.
Commenting on Natale’s appointment, Peter Meeus said: “Natale will lead a team of specialists who will distinguish between natural, treated and synthetic gemstones and grade colour, clarity and cut, which can relate to the value of the stone. We are proud to have him on board.”