Over the past year, GIA has continued to conduct extensive research on diamond appearance using observation tests. At this point, GIA’s researchers have conducted over 40,000 observations of more than 1,000 different diamonds. No diamond evaluation methodology currently used in the trade has been empirically tested in this manner.

Now you can aid in this research by participating in the evaluation process. Visit GIA’s presentation room at the AGTA GemFair in Tucson and take part in visual comparison tests that will be used to evaluate various aspects of how brilliance, fire and other factors can affect overall appearance.

GIA will also be demonstrating the effects of different lighting standards and conditions on various aspects (such as brightness and fire) of diamond appearance.

In addition, GIA will offer a PowerPoint presentation that reviews several interesting findings that have resulted from its ongoing research.  Some topics that will be included are:

• Panorama and diamond appearance
• Various types of lighting and diamond appearance
• Light leakage and diamond brightness

No reservations or appointments are needed to take part in the observation tests or to view the presentations. The presentation will be held in the Apache Room of the AGTA Educational Wing of the Convention Center. It will be open every day from Wednesday, Feb. 5 through Monday, Feb. 10. You can stop by any time during the hours of 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.  Space may be limited, but every effort will be made to accommodate all interested participants.

Jan. 21, 2003