The Australian company Gemetrix has begun delivering the Dove to the market, a portable device designed to differentiate natural diamonds from synthetics using 220 nm deep ultraviolet light. Developed by company director John Chapman, the device aims to offer a fast, visual, and more affordable method than software-based alternatives.
How the Dove Works
The operating principle is straightforward: when exposed to deep ultraviolet radiation, natural diamonds emit blue fluorescence without exhibiting phosphorescence. In contrast, synthetic gems generate non-blue fluorescence — such as purple, orange, yellow, or green — or display phosphorescence immediately after exposure. Traditional imitators, such as cubic zirconia and moissanite, remain inert, which simplifies identification.
According to Chapman, in 99% of cases, the reaction color and the presence or absence of phosphorescence allow the origin of the stone to be concluded without the aid of software. This approach eliminates digital processing and reduces analysis time: the user observes the color change through any smartphone camera app, can record images, and share the results immediately.
Advantages for Jewelers and Appraisers
The Dove can accommodate pieces larger than the viewing area, such as tennis bracelets or necklaces. The operator slides the device over the object and monitors the fluorescence on the smartphone screen, a feature the company describes as “unique viewing.” The operational simplicity has attracted gemologists and appraisers, a demographic that, according to Chapman, accounted for the majority of initial sales. He notes, however, that the need to detect synthetics is expected to grow among retail jewelers as this type of gem becomes more common in the market.
