Heritage since 1988 · Singapore

Research, laboratory science and education.
One gemological institution.

Far East Gem Research Institute (FEGRI) is a Singapore-based gemological institution advancing knowledge through research, laboratory science and education.

We bring decades of gemological experience to the questions facing students, gemstone owners and the gem and jewellery industry today.

Our institution

Three areas that strengthen one another

Far East Gem Research Institute Pte Ltd is the overarching entity. Far East Gem Lab is owned and operated under FEGRI, connecting laboratory examination and valuation expertise with research and gemological education.

Research & Insights

Published studies and conference contributions develop knowledge of gemstones, diamonds, jade, pearls and treatments.

Explore our research →

Gemological Education

Structured Gem-A study and focused one-day courses develop knowledge and practical capability, supported by laboratory and industry experience.

Study with us →

Heritage + Future

Experience that continues to develop

With a heritage dating to 1988 and more than 1,000 students trained, FEGRI has a longstanding place in Singapore’s gemological community. Our direction is to deepen the connection between research, laboratory services and education, and contribute increasingly to gemological knowledge in Southeast Asia and beyond.

Recent contributions to the International Gemmological Conference include studies of diamonds and amber from Myanmar in 2025 and cultured pearls in 2023. These sit alongside earlier co-authored work such as Burmese Jade: The Inscrutable Gem, published in Gems & Gemology in 2000.

Read the contributions and original sources →

Teaching heritage

Real specimens. Knowledge shared across generations.

Our specially curated gem collection has been assembled over nearly 50 years by Mr Tay Thye Sun, Ms Loke Hui Ying and Mr Tay Kunming, founders of The Gem Museum. The collection brings real gemstones and the knowledge behind them into the learning experience.

Our training experience includes Lee Hwa Jewellery, Poh Heng Jewellery, Soo Kee Jewellery and On Cheong Jewellery, alongside international brands including Tiffany & Co., BVLGARI, Cartier and Van Cleef & Arpels.

Kay Harris, a student of Mr Tay Thye Sun, received Gem-A’s Anderson Medal in 2006 for the best answers in the Foundation Certificate examination.

April 2027 intake

Begin your formal gemmological education

Study Gem-A Foundation in Singapore. Enrolled Foundation students receive complimentary attendance at both 1-Day Gemstone Fundamentals and 1-Day Jade Fundamentals.

The wider gem community

A family connected by gems and knowledge

FEGRI’s professional identity centres on gemological research, laboratory services and education. The wider family includes The Gem Museum, Far East Gems & Jewellery and The King’s Bespoke, connecting public education, gemstones and jewellery with our institutional story.

Work with FEGRI

Whether you are considering gemological study, need a gemstone examined or want to discuss research and industry collaboration, we welcome your enquiry.

Contact FEGRI
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