Far East Gem Research Institute · Singapore
Research & Insights
Advancing gemological understanding through published research, laboratory observations and the exchange of knowledge.
Explore selected publications and conference contributions by FEGRI researchers and collaborators, together with historical research by our founder, Tay Thye Sun.
Research · Laboratory · Education
Knowledge grows through examination.
Research develops gemological understanding. Laboratory examination applies that knowledge to real specimens and raises questions for further study. Education shares the resulting knowledge with students, professionals and the wider gem and jewellery community.
Our research history includes gemstones, diamonds, jade, pearls and treatments. The records below identify each contribution’s authors, year and original source.
Selected contributions
A growing record of gemological research
Diamonds from Than Lwin River near Mong Hsu, Myanmar
38th International Gemmological Conference, Athens, Greece
Microscopy and spectroscopy examined 16 rough diamonds reported from the Than Lwin River area. The study documents crystal features, natural radiation exposure and deformation, while recognising the limits of conclusions about geographic origin.
Amber from the Thanbaya Gaing Coal Mine, Minbu Township, Magwe Region, Myanmar
38th International Gemmological Conference, Athens, Greece
Gemmological testing and infrared spectroscopy characterise resin specimens from a Myanmar coal mine. The contribution discusses their fluorescence and maturation characteristics, and notes that more specimens are needed for further study.
Analysis of Myanmar golden-lipped cultured pearls using X-ray radiography, EDXRF, UV-Vis-NIR and Raman spectroscopy
37th International Gemmological Conference, Tokyo, Japan
Radiography and spectroscopy investigated seven cultured pearls from Myanmar. The analysis confirmed bead nucleation and natural yellow colour in the tested specimens, and documented differences in nacre thickness.
Burmese Jade: The Inscrutable Gem
Gems & Gemology, Spring 2000, Volume 36, Number 1
A co-authored study of Myanmar jadeite connects field observations with its geology, mining, evaluation, trade and treatments. It provides historical context for understanding jadeite and its journey from deposit to market.
Conference contributions and journal articles are identified separately. Historical records retain their original authorship and published affiliations; the 2023 pearl contribution was published under the name Far East Gemmological Institute.
Explore our earlier research
The research bibliography maintained by Far East Gem Lab covers earlier publications and specialist topics. It includes Tay Thye Sun’s research before FEGRI’s establishment in 1988 as well as later contributions.
Connect with FEGRI
Discuss a research question, a potential collaboration or the relationship between laboratory work and professional education.
