De Beers Group’s Science & Technology division has unveiled SynthDetect 2, the latest generation of its desktop diamond screening technology, with higher throughput, increased automation and automated reporting.

The new instrument reduces the time required for a full tray scan from around 30 minutes to less than five minutes, according to De Beers. It is designed to screen loose diamonds as well as diamonds set in jewellery, including rings, earrings, necklaces, pendants, bracelets, bangles and brooches.

SynthDetect 2 can screen diamonds ranging from 0.001 to 10 carats in the D-J colour range and provides three classifications: Natural, Synthetic and Refer. Stones receiving a Refer result require further examination.

The system has been designed to reduce operator intervention, with results automatically generated into reports. De Beers said the instrument can also screen larger quantities of melee and mounted jewellery, while rotational accessories allow testing of bangles, tennis bracelets and other jewellery formats.

For the diamond trade, the development comes as manufacturers, laboratories and retailers face growing requirements for efficient screening of natural and laboratory-grown diamonds. De Beers has been expanding its verification technology across different points in the diamond pipeline, including retail-facing solutions.

SynthDetect 2 is scheduled to be available from the first quarter of 2027, with pricing available on request. The instrument is being demonstrated by De Beers at the Hong Kong Gem & Jewellery Show.

The launch also comes against a backdrop of continued pressure from laboratory-grown diamonds on lower-value natural diamond categories. De Beers reported in its 2026 interim results that demand for smaller and lower-quality natural diamonds remained under pressure, while demand in India remained robust.