Gem Science Research Lab
Dr. Phil Belley - Earth Sciences - Memorial University of Newfoundland
Embedded Files
Building the scientific foundation for future gem discoveries and production
Gems and jewellery are global multi-billion-dollar industries that depend on a stable supply of gem materials, yet the supply of coloured gemstones is anything but guaranteed in the long term. Gems are non-renewable natural resources. Supply is sensitive to mine closures, geopolitical conflict, and trade barriers. What will mining companies and artisan miners do when their deposit becomes exhausted - considering most new deposits are discovered by chance?
We are using innovative new approaches to studying coloured gemstone deposit formation and are developing foundational knowledge that can be used in exploration by prospectors, mining companies, and geological surveys. New exploration methods support future efforts in searching for gem deposits using science instead of luck. We employ a broad range of mineralogical, sedimentological, petrological, and geochemical approaches to solving ancient geological puzzles. Our research group is actively conducting field-based research in the Arctic, Montana (USA), and Asia. We also produce data relevant to gem labs and origin determination, such as gem properties, causes of colour, trace element composition, and inclusions accompanied by precise provenance information.
Detrital Corundum Geology Pioneer
We are conducting pioneering research on corundum (ruby and sapphire) in sedimentary environments, which has significant implications for understanding placers and exploration method development. Stay tuned for some exciting new research in progress.
Image: Corundum from a sedimentary deposit shown with the tip of a needle. Field of view 1 mm.
Gem Deposit Modelling
Developing and improving our understanding of gemstone formation through models is a crucial part of advancing gem science. The factors that control gemstone formation, coloration, inclusions, and geochemistry are highly complex. Only with a robust scientific foundation can we develop reliable exploration or origin-determination methods.
Field-Based Research
Field-based data and sample collection are critical to understanding gemstone formation. Experienced in conducting field-based research and gemstone exploration, we go where the science takes us.
Global Research Footprint
Gems are where you find them: But why are some areas world-class gem producing districts? Can we use geological insights to find new gem fields? We are working to find out.
Exploration Method Development
The discovery of new coloured gemstone deposits is crucial. And yet, new deposits are primarily discovered by chance. We are conducting cutting-edge research to develop new ways of finding colored gemstone deposits. Some of these new developments will be made public over the next several years.
Page updated
Google Sites
Report abuse