INSIGHT 精辟洞见 GEMSWORLD | 18 | 2026 | Olivia Quiniquini 程爱莉 | The absence of a unified global colour standard remains a persistent challenge for the coloured gemstone trade, according to the Asian Institute of Gemological Sciences (AIGS). Coloured stones exist in a far more complex and subjective spectrum than diamonds, which have clear internationally accepted grading systems, noted AIGS Chairman Kennedy Ho. “Colour perception varies widely, depending on lighting conditions, geographic environment and even the physiological nuances of the individual gemmologist’s eyesight, among other factors," he explained. “These inconsistencies inevitably influence colour reporting, market valuation and consumer confidence.” While gemmological laboratories worldwide strive to adhere to similar principles, the interpretation of colour, treatment and origin still varies substantially from one lab to another. This lack of uniformity complicates communication in a rapidly growing coloured gemstone market. Harmonising interpretations and establishing precise, shared standards must be a priority, said Ho, adding that a unified approach would not only enhance transparency but also bolster trust among traders, collectors and consumers. Gem testing AIGS leverages its testing services to gain valuable insights into market trends. While it receives a high volume of rubies, sapphires and emeralds, Ho has observed a marked increase in spinel submissions. This trend reflects both heightened market demand and the gemstone’s rising profile among collectors and traders. Colour quality, origin determination and treatment status are clients' primary concerns across all gemstone categories. The distinction between heated and unheated stones is particularly crucial, especially in the upper segments of the market where provenance exerts a direct influence on price. Ho remarked, “Consumer appetite for reliable origin reporting remains strong, reaffirming its role as a major value driver in the global trade.” Most of the treated stones examined by AIGS in 2025 reflected long-established enhancement techniques, notably heat treatment and beryllium diffusion. Driving innovation and synergies AIGS: AIGS倡导创新与联结 AIGS is playing a pivotal role in shaping the future of the coloured gemstone trade by seeking to harmonise standards, modernising educational initiatives and fostering global collaboration. 亚洲宝石研究院(AIGS)正透过寻求统一标准、 推动教育举措现代化及促进全球合作，在彩色宝石行业的未来发展中发挥关键作用。 AIGS transitioned to an i-Pad based learning environment in 2025 2025年AIGS转向以iPad为基础的数字 化学习环境 AIGS gemmological course AIGS宝石学课程 AIGS Accredited Gemologist Graduation Ceremony AIGS认证宝石学家毕业典礼 AIGS Chairman Kennedy Ho (right) AIGS主席Kennedy Ho (右)
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