gems, gemology, damage assessment, diamond

The Gem Trade Laboratories of the Gemological Institute of America are frequently called on to render opinions regarding the nature of cracks and flaws in many varieties of stones. Most often, the question is whether a crack is inherent, partly inherent and extended, or due to damage that occurred after the stone was polished. It is my purpose here to set forth the methods used by the staff of the Laboratories in arriving at an opinion based on careful microscopic observations. It is common knowledge that insurance companies do not require very much information about jewelry before issuing policies and collecting premiums. Most jewelers have experienced cases where this practice has been troublesome, if not embarrassing. Few jewelers make a detailed diagram of inherent flaws in stones they sell or appraise, other than perhaps in diamonds, since insurance companies do not demand it. Therefore, stones with inherent fractures are frequently insured that may later be mistaken for damage, causing an unnecessary and time-consuming settlement. Let us reconstruct a hypothetical case in which an insured customer first believes he has damaged a stone. One day the insured trips and falls and believes that he has struck his star sapphire on the concrete floor. His first thought, after seeing that no bones are broken, is to inspect his star sapphire. For the first time the stone is examined carefully, perhaps with strong transmitted light. Sure enough, there is a crack! The insurance company and an adjuster are notified, and he sees the crack. The jeweler is notified. He inspects the stone with his loupe and admits that he sees a crack too. All too often the insurance company pays off, but not before considerable time and effort have been expended.