Banaras Hindu University to set up gem testing laboratory

NEW DELHI: The Banaras Hindu University (BHU) is in the process of setting up a state-of-art gem testing and research laboratory at the Central Discovery Centre under the second phase of the grants received through the SATHI (Sophisticated Analytical and Technical Help Institute) scheme sanctioned by the Department of Science and Technology (DST).

"Gemstones and other precious and semi-precious stones are extensively used by the general public in jewelry and ornaments and carry not only a commercial but also an astrological significance. Several Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) are also involved in the trading and business of the gemstones. However, most of the gems testing labs are located in the western part of the country in cities like Mumbai, Surat, and Ahmedabad. Eastern Uttar Pradesh has a dearth of such reliable testing facilities. The authentication of gemstones by scientific methods helps in distinguishing between real and fake gemstones and instill confidence among the general public. The need to have an advanced and reliable testing facility in this part of the country has long been felt," said an official statement from BHU.

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With an investment of Rs 3.75 crores under the project, the lab will have advanced and "sophisticated" instruments such as FTIR (Fourier transformation infra-red spectroscope), Laser Raman spectroscopy, ED-XRF (Energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence spectrometer), Table top XRD (X-ray diffractometer), UV-VIS-NIR (Ultra violet, visible and near infra-red)-Spectrometer, binocular and polarizing microscope and a laser cutter. Each of these instruments serves different purposes for identifying various aspects of gemstones such as structure, chemistry, color, inclusions etc.

Professor Anil Kumar Tripathi, coordinator, BHU-SATHI and director, Institute of Science, informed that it is for the first time that such a laboratory is being established in this part of the country. He informed that the professors who are specialized in the relevant fields of Mineralogy, X-ray spectroscopy from the Departments of Geology, Chemistry and Physics of the Institute of Science and MMV, BHU, and an external expert who was Head of the Gem testing laboratory of the Geological Survey of India would constitute a team to monitor and ensure the functioning of the Gem testing laboratory.

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Professor Tripathi further informed that an interaction of the industry representatives associated with quality testing and the trade of gemstones with the geology experts of BHU is being organized on April 27 to understand the needs of the industry so as to better address them. The interaction will be held at 3.30 pm in CDC building of BHU. Those interested and having experience in testing the quality of gemstones are requested to inform the Chief Operating Officer, SATHI-BHU.

This facility in BHU is another example of industry-academia collaboration and is in line with the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi that science and technology should reach out and serve the needs of the general public and common people, said Professor Tripathi. BHU has been leading by example when it comes to facilitating the local industry with its technical experience and expertise, he added.