Gemfields and Gübelin Gem Lab have launched the ‘next generation’ of disclosure on laboratory-issued gemstone certificates. In the new initiative, Gübelin Gem Lab will offer all of its clients the choice of having their names included on gemstone reports issued by Gübelin Gem Lab. Traditionally, gemstone certificates issued do not disclose the identity of the party presenting the gemstone to the laboratory for a report. As such, the party with custody of the gemstone at that point has remained anonymous.

The new approach is a key step in furthering the level of disclosure and transparency in the chain of gemstone custody.

Ian Harebottle, CEO of Gemfields said: “Gemfields believes that the more information we can share about a gemstone’s journey, the better. This innovation will improve the resolution of the chain-of-custody picture available to consumers and industry participants. Simply put, the market will better understand the hands a gemstone has passed through.” He also mentioned that “I’m particularly pleased that this initiative has been developed by Gemfields and Gübelin Gem Lab within the coloured gemstone sector, and we hope, as the global gem industry marches toward greater transparency and disclosure, that it will also be adopted by our colleagues in the diamond business, where it would be equally beneficial.”

Daniel Nyfeler, Managing Director of Gübelin Gem Lab commented: "This is a voluntary measure and one which we hope will be embraced by our clients in the gemstone trade and retail business, and eventually be adopted by other laboratories in pursuit of an improved customer offering and greater industry transparency.”