New Frontiers in Geographic Origin Determination at GIA

About the lecture:
New Frontiers in Geographic Origin Determination at GIA

Geographic origin is overwhelmingly important in the colored stone trade. Debates on whether or not origin is or should carry such weight, no one can deny its impact. GIA’s Identification Laboratory has rigorously pursued research in geographic origin determination for decades. Origin services started with ruby, sapphire, and emerald, but quickly expanded to red spinel, Paraiba tourmaline, and alexandrite. In the last year, GIA launched four new origin services for fei cui jade, precious opal, demantoid garnet, and peridot. This presentation will outline the process for origin determination for these gems and detail the years of research needed to launch these services.

About the presenter:
Dr. Aaron Palke developed an interest in minerals and gemstones searching for agates and other minerals in eastern Montana. Dr. Palke pursued a formal education in geology, obtaining a Bachelor of Science degree from The University of Tulsa and a Ph.D. from Stanford University. He began his gemological career as a Postdoctoral Research Associate at the Gemological Institute of America where he is now the Senior Manager of Colored Stone Research. In this role, Dr. Palke leads GIA’s research efforts into geographic origin determination for rubies, sapphires, emeralds and other colored stones as well as improving criteria for identification of treatments for colored stones. Dr. Palke is a regular contributor to Gems & Gemology, serves on the journal’s editorial review board, and has acted as a Guest Editor for two special issues of the journal so far.

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