CCD-based microscope aids jewel inspection

MAY 15, 2009--Traditionally the jewel industry has relied upon optical eyepieces and standard desktop optical microscopes to inspect diamonds and emeralds for inclusions, carbon deposits, and surface damage. However with growing market demand for authentication, particularly at the luxury end of the market, the need for a powerful, yet affordable digital microscope that can measure and electronically document gemstones has become apparent.

To accomplish this, jewel specialists Wharton Goldsmith (St. Albans, UK) has purchased a MSX-500Di CCD microscope from Moritex Europe (Cambridgeshire, UK) to measure and electronically document precious gemstones handled by the company. Christopher Wharton, managing director of Wharton, says, "The MSX has allowed us to precisely measure cut angles as well as to focus through gemstones to inspect different levels for tiny internal blemishes."

He added, "The adjustable LED lighting on the MSX has allowed us to record images at different angles and eliminate any glare caused by the gemstone cut. The ease of use, high magnifying power, image clarity and ability to record document images makes the MSX-500Di a valuable new tool for the jewel trade."

For more information, go to: http://www.moritex.com/index.php/compact-ccd-microscope-aids-jewel-inspection/

-- Posted by Conard Holton, Vision Systems Design, www.vision-systems.com