This content was first published on IGR – Italian Gemological Review no. 15 in 2022. The information provided here is therefore current as of the original publication date.
Opsydia, the Cambridge University spin-out established in 2017 continues to break new ground. The company has being developing adaptive optical techniques for use in short-pulse laser processing. This innovative technology is designed for marking diamonds and gemstones through embedded serial numbers and providing security and traceability without degrading the material.
In September 2021 the company released new markers specifically conceived for small-sized gems.
According to the company’s announcement now even diamonds that are just 0.5 millimeters in diameter can have an alphanumeric sequence, coded shape or logo placed beneath their surface to create a physical link to a supply chain record or branded jewellery origin.
The application of Opsydia technology to very small sized diamonds is potentially an important advancement for volume manufacturers who may be needing an effective methodology to secure their supply chain and get protected against undisclosed synthetics. The accuracy of the Opsydia System allow for high-resolution lines, approximately ~1µm (0.001 mm) in width, meaning legible characters can be achieved at much smaller sizes in comparison to industry-standard surface marking systems.
Gem News published on IGR – Italian Gemological Review #15, Autumn 2022
