The Swiss Gemmological Institute (SSEF) launched a new, unique and easy-to-use system to count, document and measure single and multi-strand pearl necklaces at the ongoing Baselworld show. The system makes it easy to count large quantities of pearls on strands, and measure their dimensions in an easy and efficient manner, a release from the SSEF said.

PearlScan®, as the system is called has been developed in collaboration with CSEM (Swiss Center for Electronics and Microtechnology) and supported by a prestigious CTI grant from Switzerland's Commission for Technology and Innovation.

It consists of an A4 scanner, computer and proprietary software, and incorporates a complex algorithm that enables the detection of different strands, and a count of the pearls while measuring the diameter of each one and distinguishing them from other elements (such as knots, diamonds and other decorative items), SSEF said.

The semi-automated system also calculates a roundness factor for every pearl, and measures the length of each strand, the release noted, adding that, it welcomes user intervention to optimise and review output. In terms of documentation it produces images and a detailed report of the number and diameter of each pearl on the different strands.

Dr. Michael S. Krzemnicki, director of SSEF said, “We have found that PearlScan® greatly supports analytical and documentation procedures in our own laboratory at SSEF. We are glad to be able to offer now this new and easy-to-use solution to the trade and pearl industry.”

PearlScan® is being sold through SSEF's subsidiary SATT Gems SA and more information is available on its website www.sattgems.com.

Pic caption: PearlScan® system (left) and user interface (right) for documenting and measuring single and multi-strand pearl necklaces
Courtesy: SSEF