Varanasi, Apr 29 (KNN) Banaras Hindu University( BHU) has decided to establish a state-of-the-art gemstone testing and research laboratory under the Sophisticated Analytical and Technical Help Institute (SATHI) scheme sanctioned by the department of Science and Technology (DST).

The laboratory will be housed in the Central Discovery Centre (CDC) of BHU. 

The decision was taken during an interaction between the authorities of BHU industry and representatives associated with quality testing and the trade of gemstones and gemology experts on Thursday.

According to the BHU spokesperson, the meet was attended by many experts including former director general of the Geological Survey of India JN Das, Prof NV Chalapathi Rao from the department of Geology at BHU, Neeraj Pandey, and a former senior official at the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS).

Faculty members from the departments of Geology and Chemistry were also present, along with president of the Indian Industry Association Rajesh Bhatia.

The coordinator of SATHI-BHU and director of the Institute of Science, Anil K Tripathi said that this is the first time a laboratory of this kind is being established in this part of the country. 

As per reports, the proposed gem testing facility will be equipped with several state-of-the-art sophisticated instruments, including an FTIR (Fourier transformation infra-red spectroscope), Laser Raman spectroscopy, ED-XRF (Energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence spectrometer), Table top XRD (X-ray diffractometer), UV-VIS-NIR (Ultra violet, visible and near infra-red) Spectrometer, binocular and polarizing microscope, and a laser cutter. 

These instruments will be used to identify various aspects of gemstones such as structure, chemistry, colour, and inclusions, Tripathi said.

The facility will be established at an investment of Rs 3.75 crore.  (KNN Bureau)