Laser Analysis Technologies - Spectrolaser Target Gemstone Analyzer

The Spectrolaser Target instrument has been developed by Laser Analysis Technologies Pty Ltd (LAT) to aid gemologists in gem classification. It has been developed for users such as the Gem and Jewelry Institute of Thailand where the instrument is used to classify gemstones from around the world. In this instance the instrument is used to identify beryllium doping of corundum (sapphire) that changes a particular stone's colour and thereby significantly (and artificially) increase the gem's value. During analysis with the Spectrolaser Target a high-power laser is used to induce a bright spark (or plasma) at the surface of the material, the light from which is subsequently analysed by a unique spectrometer and detection system.

The technology (based on Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy) is sensitive to a wide range of elements including colour enhancing elements present in treated gemstones. The new instrument differs in design to previous Spectrolaser instruments in a number of ways. The necessity to produce minimal damage to the gemstones plus the desire to accurately target specific areas of the stone (for example the girdle) has lead to the development of many new features incorporated into the Spectrolaser Target. To aid gem classification LAT has replaced the infra-red 1064nm Nd:YAG laser typically used in Spectrolaser instruments with an ultraviolet 355nm frequency tripled Nd:YAG laser. The UV laser produces a smaller focal point and is only absorbed at the very surface of the gem thereby producing an inconsequentially small area of laser damage. Also Included in the Spectrolaser Target is a cross-hair targeting camera system and a precisely adjustable mounting assembly that enables quick and easy positioning of the laser strike-point on the gemstone.