News
Key advancements in XRF focus on using high-resolution synchrotron-based techniques for trace element analysis
The diamond market is seeing mixed activity across the globe, driven by holiday shopping in the US and traditional shutdowns in India.
Recent advances in XRF in diamonds focus on using high-resolution, synchrotron-based techniques for trace element analysis, chemical state analysis of impurities, and identifying synthetic diamonds. Developments include using XRF with other techniques like X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) for more complete analysis and using nanoprobes for spatial resolution down to 50 nm. Researchers are also creating methods to analyze trace elements in synthetic diamonds with high precision, sometimes achieving concentrations far greater than in natural diamonds.
Key advancements
- High-resolution spatial mapping:
Synchrotron XRF, especially with nanoprobe techniques, provides nanoscale mapping of elemental distributions within a diamond, revealing the relationship between elements and growth sectors.
Using techniques like XANES (X-ray Absorption Near Edge Structure) spectroscopy alongside XRF, researchers can determine the chemical state and site of impurities within the diamond lattice (e.g., the location of nickel atoms).
- Analysis of synthetic diamonds:
XRF is crucial for characterizing synthetic diamonds, including:
- Trace element analysis: Detecting and quantifying trace impurities (like Co and Mn) incorporated from metallic solvents used during synthesis.
- Synthetic vs. natural identification: Identifying synthetic diamonds based on their trace element composition, which differs from natural diamonds.
- Detecting intentional doping: Synthesizing and analyzing diamonds with specific doped atoms, like Europium (Eu), to achieve high concentrations (e.g., 51 ± 5 ppm) for specific properties.
- Integration with other techniques:
XRF is increasingly combined with other techniques like X-ray diffraction (XRD) and XAS to provide more comprehensive elemental and structural information about the sample.
- Gemological applications:
In the gemological industry, XRF is used to distinguish natural from synthetic diamonds and to detect treatments like fracture filling by showing the elemental composition of the filling agents.
International News
GJEPC Auckland Visit Targets Growth In India-NZ Jewellery Trade
The Opportunity In New Zealand Is Significant Relative To The Current Level Of Jewellery Trade. India’s Gem and Jewellery Exports To New Zealand Rose 50.56% To US$25.46 Million In FY2025-26, From US$16.91 Million In FY2024-25.
The GJEPC trade delegation’s Auckland programme has highlighted the scope for expanding India’s gem and jewellery exports to New Zealand as the two countries move towards implementing their recently concluded Free Trade Agreement (FTA).
The Auckland visit was part of GJEPC’s Australia and New Zealand trade delegation, held from 20-26 August 2026, with the delegation focused on connecting Indian manufacturers and exporters with buyers and industry stakeholders across the two markets.
The opportunity in New Zealand is significant relative to the current level of jewellery trade. India’s gem and jewellery exports to New Zealand rose 50.56% to US$25.46 million in FY2025-26, from US$16.91 million in FY2024-25.
The recently concluded India-New Zealand FTA is expected to create further opportunities for Indian exporters. New Zealand has committed to duty-free access for Indian exports across 100% of its tariff lines once the agreement enters into force.
On 26th August, Vijay Mangukiya, Convener – International Events, GJEPC and leader of the delegation, met Dr. Madan Mohan Sethi, Consul General of India in Auckland. Mangukiya has said the delegation was aimed at bringing Indian manufacturers and exporters closer to buyers and industry stakeholders in both Australia and New Zealand, with the objective of identifying new business opportunities and developing long-term partnerships.
The delegation’s Auckland market visits covered a broad cross-section of the local jewellery sector, including Michael Hill, Wallace Bishop, Hardy Brothers, Prouds, and Partridge Jewellers. The delegation also observed international luxury and contemporary jewellery brands including Van Cleef & Arpels, Roberto Coin, Messika and FOPE, reflecting the competitive environment in which Indian exporters would be seeking to establish or expand relationships.
India’s exports of individual jewellery categories to New Zealand also recorded strong growth in FY2025-26. Gold jewellery exports rose 84% to US$17.47 million, while silver jewellery exports doubled to US$0.91 million. Lab-grown diamond exports rose 2% to US$0.63 million, and imitation jewellery increased 13.16% to US$0.43 million. Cut and polished diamond exports were US$5.76 million.
The figures underline the growing contribution of finished jewellery to India’s New Zealand business. With the FTA expected to improve market access and the Auckland market showing demand across gold, diamonds, coloured stones, pearls and branded jewellery, GJEPC’s delegation is seeking to convert this existing growth into deeper commercial relationships.
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