Friday, September 04, 2009
PRESS RELEASE
Gem-A and SSEF Announce Gem Testing Link-Up
Gem-A and SSEF have signed a memorandum of understanding for Gem-A to outsource gemstone and pearl testing to SSEF (The Swiss Gemmological Institute) based in Basle, Switzerland. Although SSEF has operated internationally for many years, the new agreement will allow Gem-A’s UK Members the advantages of convenience and the cost benefits of consolidated shipping. The final administrative and insurance details are still be finalised, but the arrangement will start on 1 January 2010, with, it is hoped, a pilot scheme in operation within a few weeks.
Dr Jack Ogden, Gem-A CEO said: “I am delighted to announce that gemstone and pearl testing will soon be available again to our UK Members. SSEF is a famous gem lab of acknowledged world-class standard and at the forefront of gemmological research. This agreement builds on the long and close cooperation we have had with SSEF.”
Dr Michael S. Krzemnicki, Director of SSEF, said: “We have worked closely with Gem-A for many years and this laboratory initiative will hopefully contribute to ever closer cooperation and growth. Our testing for the gem and jewellery industry are vital for our ambitious research programmes which are of benefit to the entire gemmological community and, ultimately, to consumers.”
Gem-A has been in discussions with SSEF since finally deciding to close its London laboratory last year when the economic crisis stalled its own ambitious lab upgrading programme.
For additional information on this release, contact Arianna Maccaferri - arianna@gem-a.com or Petra Niggli admin@ssef.ch (at SSEF).
About Us
The Gemmological Association of Great Britain, or Gem-A, is the world’s longest established provider of gem education and its graduates form an international community of gem professionals and enthusiasts. As a UK registered charity we seek to serve the best interests of the gem and jewellery industries, support gemmological research and are committed to the highest educational standards.
The Swiss Gemmological Institute SSEF was founded in 1976 as an independent gemmological laboratory and has since then gained worldwide recognition for its testing services at highest standards. Our certificates are a guaranty for your most prestigious coloured stones, diamonds and pearls. Our international reputation is based on our research activities, focussing on origin determination of coloured stones, treatment detection of coloured stones and diamonds, and pearl identification, using the most advanced instrumentation. Apart from our testing services, the SSEF has also a long established education programme, offering courses in advanced and scientific gemmology.
Gem-A Contact:
+44 (0) 20 7404 3334
arianna@gem-a.com
