System and method for detection of diamond simulants

Abstract

A bulk diamond simulant evaluation device with a lightproof enclosure, a camera hole that allows for a camera view into the enclosure, with white light source and green light source to illuminate the stones positioned above the stones. At least one, infrared block filter, at least one near infrared pass filter, and a slider that can switch between the filters. A detector for detecting light that is emitted by the stones, the detector capable of detecting light at least as near infrared fluorescence during illumination of the stones by the green light source of the stones; at least one detector capable of detecting visible light during illumination of the stones by the white light source. A processor, camera, and display capable of acting as the detector to detect visible light during illumination by the white light source of the stones and emission of near infrared fluorescence light during illumination of the stones by the green light source. A display for displaying the result of detection of the emitted light so as to enable at least distinguishing between emission of near infrared red (NIR) fluorescence that is characteristic of a simulant, and a NIR fluorescence that is characteristic of a diamond.

Description

P-638963-PCSYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DETECTION OF DIAMOND SIMULANTSFIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a system and method for detection of diamond simulants.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Several types of diamond simulants exist. The common types of simulants are cubic zirconia (ZrO2), synthetic moissanite (SiC), synthetic white sapphire (a-A12O3), glass and others.

[0003] It is often important to distinguish between simulants and diamonds. For example, people who trade in gem-quality diamonds, who manufacture, sell, or buy jewelry, who are responsible for appraising gems or jewelry, and others, may be required (e.g., by the US Federal Trade Commission or by another body) to distinguish between simulants and diamonds.

[0004] Various techniques have been devised for distinguishing simulants from diamonds. However, these methods do not offer a straightforward technique for determining whether a stone is a diamond or a simulant in bulk.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0005] There is thus provided, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, a bulk diamond simulant evaluation device comprising: at least one lightproof enclosure, a camera hole that allows for a camera view into the enclosure; at least one opening for introducing stones that opens into the lightproof enclosure; at least one white light source configured to illuminate the stones positioned above the stones; at least one green light source configured to illuminate the stones positioned above the stones; at least one near infrared block filter below the camera hole at the top of the enclosure wherein the infrared block filter cuts-off light; at least one near infrared pass filter below the camera hole at the top of the enclosure wherein the infrared pass filter passes Near Infrared light; at least one slider that can switch between the filters; at leastP-638963-PC one detector for detecting light that is emitted by the stones through the camera view, the detector capable of detecting light at least as near infrared fluorescence during illumination of the stones by the green light source of the stones and detecting visible light during illumination of the stones by the white light source; a display for displaying the result of detection of the emitted light so as to enable at least distinguishing between emission of near infrared red (NIR) fluorescence that is characteristic of a simulant, and a NIR fluorescence that is characteristic of a diamond.

[0006] Furthermore, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the detector is at least one smartphone with a processor, camera, and display acting as the detector to detect visible light during illumination by the white light source of the stones and emission of near infrared fluorescence light during illumination of the stones by the green light source; at least one smartphone capable of producing pictures; wherein the smartphone display is capable of displaying the result of detection of the emitted light so as to enable at least distinguishing between emission of near infrared red (NIR) fluorescence that is characteristic of a simulant, and a NIR fluorescence that is characteristic of a diamond.

[0007] Furthermore, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the detector is at least one camera, electronics circuit board, and computer processer module and display acting as the detector to detect visible light during illumination by the white light source of the stones and emission of near infrared fluorescence light during illumination of the stones green light source; wherein the computer processor is capable of producing pictures; wherein the display is capable of displaying the result of detection of the emitted light so as to enable at least distinguishing between emission of near infrared red (NIR) fluorescence that is characteristic of a simulant, and a NIR fluorescence that is characteristic of a diamond.

[0008] Furthermore, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the diamond simulant evaluation device is capable of evaluating multiple stones in bulk at the same time.

[0009] Furthermore, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the diamond simulant evaluation device includes at least one opening, such as a drawer to insert stones, that opens into the lightproof enclosure.P-638963-PC

[0010] Furthermore, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the diamond simulant evaluation device includes at least a DC Jack and USB Jack on the lightproof enclosure.

[0011] Furthermore, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the USB Jack on the lightproof enclosure can connect using a USB cord to a smartphone or computer processor module.

[0012] Furthermore, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the power to the device can be provided by batteries.

[0013] Furthermore, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the diamond simulant evaluation device includes at least one white light source to illuminate the stones.

[0014] Furthermore, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the diamond simulant evaluation device includes at least one green light source to illuminate the stones.

[0015] Furthermore, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the diamond simulant evaluation device includes at least one white light source being above the stones.

[0016] Furthermore, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the diamond simulant evaluation device includes at least one green light source being above the stones.

[0017] Furthermore, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the diamond simulant evaluation device includes at least one infrared block filter.

[0018] Furthermore, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the diamond simulant evaluation device includes at least one infrared pass filter.

[0019] Furthermore, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the diamond simulant evaluation device includes at least one slider that can switch between the filters.

[0020] Furthermore, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the diamond simulant evaluation device includes a detector for detecting light that is emitted by the stones.P-638963-PC

[0021] Furthermore, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the detector for detecting light emitted by the stones is a camera that can detect visible and near infrared light.

[0022] Furthermore, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the diamond simulant evaluation device includes a detector capable of detecting light in the near infrared range at least as fluorescence during illumination of the stones by the green light source.

[0023] Furthermore, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention the diamond simulant evaluation device includes a detector capable of taking a visible light picture during illumination of the stones by the white light.

[0024] Furthermore, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the detector includes a smartphone with a processor, camera, and display capable of taking and displaying a visible light picture during illumination of the stones by the white light source.

[0025] Furthermore, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the detector includes a smartphone with a processor, camera, and display capable of taking and displaying near infrared fluorescence during illumination of the stones by the green light.

[0026] Furthermore, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the diamond simulant evaluation device includes a detector comprising a camera, electronics circuit board, and a computer processer module, and a display capable of detecting and displaying near infrared fluorescence during illumination of the stones by the green light.

[0027] Furthermore, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the detector includes a smartphone with a processor, camera, and display capable of detecting and displaying light in the visible range during illumination by the white light source of the stones for acquiring color images of the light that is emitted by the stones.

[0028] Furthermore, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the diamond simulant evaluation device includes a detector comprising a camera, electronics circuit board, and a computer processer module and display capable ofP-638963-PC taking and displaying a picture taken during illumination of the stones by the white light.

[0029] Furthermore, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the diamond simulant evaluation device includes a computer processor module or smartphone capable of producing pictures.

[0030] Furthermore, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the diamond simulant evaluation device includes a computer processor module or smartphone capable of producing false color processed pictures which display the detected fluorescence as falsely colored pixels on a color image.

[0031] Furthermore, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the diamond simulant evaluation device includes a display for displaying a result of detection of the emitted light so as to enable at least distinguishing between emission of near infrared fluorescence that is characteristic of a simulant, and a near infrared fluorescence that is characteristic of a diamond.

[0032] Furthermore, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, a display screen of the smartphone is a touchscreen, configured to display a user interface and receive touch gesture input from a user to control operation of the device.

[0033] Furthermore, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, a display screen of the smartphone is configured to display the result.

[0034] Furthermore, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, a processor of the smartphone is configured to control operation of the light sources and the camera.

[0035] Furthermore, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention when an internal standalone camera is used a computer processor module controls the camera.

[0036] Furthermore, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the computer processor module is configured to communicate with circuitry for operation of the sources via a Bluetooth, WiFi or cable connection.

[0037] Furthermore, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the diamond simulant evaluation device is configured to display the detected fluorescence as falsely colored pixels on a color image.P-638963-PC

[0038] Furthermore, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the green light source is LEDs, bulbs, or other forms of green light.

[0039] Furthermore, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the white light source is LEDs, bulbs, or other forms of white light.

[0040] Furthermore, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the infrared block filter cuts-off light above about 750 nm.

[0041] Furthermore, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the infrared pass filter passes NIR light at between 850 nm and 915 nm

[0042] Furthermore, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, at least one source is configured to emit green light in the range of 510 nm to 590 nm.

[0043] Furthermore, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the device can be a standalone device.

[0044] Furthermore, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the device can be integrated with other diamond detection devices.

[0045] There is further provided, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, a method of operation of a diamond simulant evaluation device for evaluating a stone, the method including: Sliding the block IR filter into place in front of the camera, so the camera detects only visible light, inserting the stone into the opening of the lightproof enclosure and returning the opening into the lightproof enclosure; turning on the white light of the device to illuminate the stone; zooming in or out, focusing and taking a picture; shutting off the white light and turning on the green light; sliding the infrared pass filter into place and taking a picture; shutting off the green light; activating the processor in smart phone or computer processor module to process green light picture for under or above threshold; processing, obtaining, and displaying three pictures showing original white light, green light, and a green or original with false color processed and all above threshold stones marked in color.

[0046] Furthermore, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention the display displays a picture with an indication of the infrared fluorescence of the stone to enable distinguishing between strong near infrared fluorescence that is characteristic of a simulant and weak near infrared fluorescence that is characteristic of a diamond.P-638963-PC

[0047] Furthermore, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the displaying includes applying a false color to indicate a location in the color image where the above threshold fluorescence was detected.

[0048] Furthermore, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention stones with at least 50% of the pixels having an intensity of more than 200 on a 0-255 intensity scale according to IEC 61966-2-1 digital still image coding standard (sRGB) are considered likely to be simulants.

[0049] Furthermore, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention stones with at least 50% of the pixels have an intensity of less than 200 in a 0-255 sRGB intensity scale are considered likely to be diamonds.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0050] In order for the present invention, to be better understood and for its practical applications to be appreciated, the following Figures are provided and referenced hereafter. It should be noted that the Figures are given as examples only and in no way limit the scope of the invention.

[0051] Fig. 1 schematically illustrates an external view of a simulant diamond detection device with a smartphone in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0052] Fig. 2 schematically illustrates an external view of a simulant diamond detection device with a smartphone linked to the lightproof enclosure using a USB cable in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0053] Fig. 3 schematically illustrates a section view of a simulant diamond detection device with a built-in computing module, camera and electronics circuit, and a drawer as an opening.

[0054] Fig. 4 schematically illustrates an internal view of a simulant diamond detection device with green LED lights and a filter switch in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0055] Fig. 5 schematically illustrates a top view of the circuit board in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.P-638963-PC

[0056] Fig. 6 schematically illustrates a bottom view of the circuit board in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0057] Fig. 7 schematically illustrates the filters switch showing the IR block filter and the IR pass filter. The figure shows the IR switch in two different states.

[0058] Fig. 8 is a flow chart depicting a method of operation of a simulant diamond detection device, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0059] Fig. 9A is a false color image showing diamonds and simulants tested by the diamond simulant evaluation device.

[0060] Fig. 9B is the same image in Fig. 9A showing diamonds and simulants tested by the diamond simulant evaluation device. The stones above the threshold are marked in red.

[0061] Fig. 10A is a false color image showing diamonds and simulants tested by the diamond simulant evaluation device.

[0062] Fig. 10B is the same image in Fig. 10A showing diamonds and simulants tested by the diamond simulant evaluation device. The stones above the threshold are marked in red.

[0063] Fig. 11A is a false color image showing diamonds and simulants tested by the diamond simulant evaluation device.

[0064] Fig. 11B is the same image in Fig. 11A showing diamonds and simulants tested by the diamond simulant evaluation device. The stones above the threshold are marked in red.

[0065] Fig. 12A is a false color image showing diamonds and simulants tested by the diamond simulant evaluation device.

[0066] Fig. 12B is the same image in Fig. 12A showing diamonds and simulants tested by the diamond simulant evaluation device. The stones above the threshold are marked in red.

[0067] Fig. 13 A is a false color image showing diamonds tested by the diamond simulant evaluation device.P-638963-PC

[0068] Fig. 13B is the same image in Fig. 13 A showing the diamonds tested by the diamond simulant evaluation device. There are no stones above the threshold and no markings in red.

[0069] Fig. 14A is a false color image showing cubic zirconia (CZ) stones tested by the diamond simulant evaluation device.

[0070] Fig. 14B is the same image in Fig. 14A showing the CZ tested by the diamond simulant evaluation device. The stones are all above the threshold and are all marked in red.

[0071] Fig. 15A is a false color image showing diamonds and simulants tested by the diamond simulant evaluation device.

[0072] Fig. 15B is the same image in Fig. 15A showing diamonds and simulants tested by the diamond simulant evaluation device. The stones above the threshold are marked in red.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0073] In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the invention. However, it will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that the invention may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, procedures, components, modules, units and / or circuits have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the invention.

[0074] Although embodiments of the invention are not limited in this regard, discussions utilizing terms such as, for example, “processing,” “computing,” “calculating,” “determining,” “establishing”, “analyzing”, “checking”, or the like, may refer to operation(s) and / or process(es) of a computer, a computing platform, a computing system, or other electronic computing device, that manipulates and / or transforms data represented as physical (e.g., electronic) quantities within the computer’s registers and / or memories into other data similarly represented as physical quantities within the computer’s registers and / or memories or other information non- transitory storage medium (e.g., a memory) that may store instructions to perform operations and / or processes.P-638963-PC

[0075] The term "stone" or “stones” refers to either a diamond or a simulant that is intended to be tested by the device and can refer to stones mounted in jewelry or loose stones. The term “diamond” refers to a natural or lab grown diamond. The term “stone” or “stones” further refers to one or many stones or one or many pieces of jewelry containing stones. The term “bulk” refers to evaluating multiple stones at one time.

[0076] The term "device" refers to the diamond simulant evaluation device.

[0077] The term “simulant” refers among others to cubic zirconia (ZrO2), zircon (ZrSiO4), and synthetic white sapphire (a-A12O3), and glass.

[0078] The term "processor" refers among others to a computer processor module. The term “opening” in relation to the device relates to a door, drawer or other means for placing stones into the device.

[0079] The term "hole" or "camera hole" refers to a hole in the lightproof enclosure that allows for a camera view into the enclosure.

[0080] Although embodiments of the invention are not limited in this regard, the terms “plurality” and “a plurality” as used herein may include, for example, “multiple” or “two or more”. The terms “plurality” or “a plurality” may be used throughout the specification to describe two or more components, devices, elements, units, parameters, or the like.

[0081] As used herein, the term “about” may be used to specify a value of a quantity or parameter (e.g., the length of an element) to within a continuous range of values in the neighborhood of (and including) a given (stated) value. According to some embodiments, “about” may specify the value of a parameter to be between 80 % and 120 % of the given value. According to some embodiments, “about” may specify the value of a parameter to be between 90 % and 110 % of the given value. According to some embodiments, “about” may specify the value of a parameter to be between 95 % and 105 % of the given value.

[0082] Unless explicitly stated, the method embodiments described herein are not constrained to a particular order or sequence. Additionally, some of the described method embodiments or elements thereof can occur or be performed simultaneously, at the same point in time, or concurrently. Unless otherwise indicated,P-638963-PC the conjunction “or” as used herein is to be understood as inclusive (any or all of the stated options).

[0083] When in operation, the stone, the illumination sources, and light detector are enclosed in a lightproof enclosure. The lightproof enclosure may include an opening, e.g., in the form of a door, drawer, removable cover, or other opening, to enable introduction of stones into the lightproof enclosure prior to operation of the simulant diamond detection device. After insertion of the stones, closing the opening to the lightproof enclosure may prevent stray light from outside the lightproof enclosure from reaching the light detector.

[0084] A processor may be configured to control the illumination sources and the light detector. For example, the processor may include or consist of a processor of a smartphone whose camera is used to detect the light that is emitted by the diamonds. For example, the smartphone may be programmed with an application that is configured to interact with components of the simulant diamond detection device so as to control their operation. In some cases, the processor or smartphone may be configured to communicate with the illumination sources, via a Bluetooth connection, or via another wired or wireless connection.

[0085] For example, the processor may be configured to concurrently operate the illumination sources and the light detector so as to detect fluorescence of the illuminated diamonds.

[0086] The green light illumination sources are configured to emit illumination in the range of 510 nm to 590 nm.

[0087] In some cases, the processor may be configured to operate the light detector without illumination. For example, the prior operation of the light detector may yield a baseline reading that may be subtracted from detected light during. The baseline reading may be utilized to cancel out effects of any residual leakage of ambient light into the simulant diamond detection device, or other background sources of light.

[0088] In some cases, the processor may be configured to adjust sensitivity of the light detector. For example, the processor may be configured to adjusting an aperture or exposure time of a camera, may apply a threshold reading, or otherwise control a sensitivity of detection of light by the light detector. In some cases, the sensitivity mayP-638963-PC be increased when a user indicates that a stone that is being identified is mounted in a setting, e.g., of jewelry or an ornament. For example, increasing the sensitivity when a stone is mounted in a setting may compensate for blockage of illumination, of emitted light, or both by the setting.

[0089] The processor may be configured to operate an output device in order to output results of the light detection and analysis. In some cases, the results may be displayed on a display screen of a smartphone that is in communication with, or is incorporated into, the simulant diamond detection device.

[0090] Some embodiments of the invention may include an article such as a computer or processor readable medium, or a computer or processor non-transitory storage medium, such as for example a memory, a disk drive, or a USB flash memory, encoding, including or storing instructions, e.g., computer-executable instructions, which when executed by a processor or controller, carry out methods disclosed herein.

[0091] Some embodiments of the invention may include a bulk diamond simulant evaluation device for evaluating stones, the device comprising: a lightproof enclosure; a camera hole in the enclosure that allows for a camera view into the enclosure; an opening for introducing stones that opens into the lightproof enclosure; at least one white light source configured to illuminate the stones positioned above the stones; at least one green light source configured to illuminate the stones positioned above the stones; an infrared block filter below the camera hole at the top of the enclosure wherein the infrared block filter cuts-off light; a near infrared pass filter below the camera hole at the top of the enclosure wherein the infrared pass filter passes Near Infrared light; a slider that can switch between the filters; a detector for detecting light that is emitted by the stones through the camera view, the detector capable of detecting light as near infrared fluorescence during illumination of the stones by the green light source and detecting visible light during illumination of the stones by the white light source; a display for displaying the result of detection of the emitted light so as to enable at least distinguishing between emission of near infrared red (NIR) fluorescence that is characteristic of a simulant, and a NIR fluorescence that is characteristic of a diamond.

[0092] In some embodiments, the light detector may include a camera or other imaging or scanning device capable of detecting near infrared wavelengths. The light detectorP-638963-PC may include an infrared block filter that cuts-off light above 750nm. The light detector may include an infrared pass filter that blocks visible light and passes NIR light between 850 to 915 nm. The light detector may include a lens or other optics to enable distinguishing light that originates from one location on the platform (e.g., emitted by one stone) from light that originates at another location on the platform (e.g., emitted by another stone). For example, the light detector may include a charge-coupled device (CCD) camera or other camera capable of detecting near infrared wavelengths and visible light that is configured to acquire color images or otherwise enable distinguishing light of one color or in one wavelength range from light of another color or wavelength range.

[0093] In some embodiments, a smartphone camera may serve as the light detector. For example, the simulant diamond detection device may include structure for holding the smartphone such that the camera of the smartphone may view any stones tested by the device.

[0094] In some embodiments, the computer processor module is configured to receive signals or other data from the light detectors that are indicative of the detected light, and to analyze the detector data from the light detectors. The processor may be further configured to operate a display or other output device to display or otherwise output the results of the measurement and analysis. For example, the processor may be configured to output a result that is indicative of the fluorescence of each evaluated stone.

[0095] In some cases, the display may include a color image of the fluorescent light that is emitted by the stones during illumination, superimposed with a false color image of the fluorescent light. The false color that indicates fluorescent light may be solid red or another color that is readily visible to a typical user. In some cases, the false color is binary, e.g., either on or off in a given pixel, without intermediate levels. Thus, in these cases, the presence or absence of false color may indicate either the presence or absence of the detected fluorescent light, and not its intensity (e.g., over a threshold intensity). Thus, the display may enable a user to distinguish between a stone that displays fluorescence that is generally characteristic of a diamond, and fluorescence that is characteristic of a simulant.P-638963-PC

[0096] The output results may indicate, or may be indicative of, whether a stone is likely to be a diamond, or simulant.

[0097] A diamond that is illuminated with such green illumination emits NIR light by fluorescence as it is being illuminated with a green light in which less than 50% of the pixels have an intensity, less than 200 on the sRBG scale.

[0098] A simulant illuminated with such green illumination emits NIR light by fluorescence as it is being illuminated with a green light in which more than 50% of the pixels have an intensity of more than 200 on the sRBG scale.

[0099] In some embodiments, a method of operation of the bulk diamond simulant evaluation device for evaluating stones comprises: sliding the block IR filter into place in front of the camera, so the camera detects only visible light; inserting the stone into the opening of the light proof enclosure and returning the opening into the lightproof enclosure; turning on the white light of the device to illuminate the stone; zooming in or out, focusing and taking a picture; shutting off the white light and turning on the green light; sliding the infrared pass filter into place and taking a picture; shutting off the green light; activating the processor in smartphone or computer processor module to process green light picture for under or above threshold; processing, obtaining, and displaying three pictures showing original white light, green light, and a green or original with false color processed and all above threshold stones marked in color.

[0100] The simulant diamond detection device will now be described in relation to the figures. Figure 1 illustrates an external view of a simulant diamond detection device. The figure shows an embodiment of the invention in which a lightproof enclosure and a drawer (4) as an opening into which the stones are placed into the lightproof enclosure. The figure shows an embodiment of the invention which uses a smartphone (1) in the operation of the device. The smartphone (1) has a USB jack which connects to the USB (2) on the lightproof enclosure. The lightproof enclosure also has a DC jack (3) to provide connection to an external power source. The power source of the device can also be an internal battery.

[0101] Figure 2 illustrates an external view of a simulant diamond detection device. This figure shows an embodiment of the invention in which the smartphone (1) connected to the diamond simulant device with a USB cable at the USB jacks (2). TheP-638963-PC smartphone can be connected using other wireless means such as WiFi. In this embodiment of the invention the smartphone acts as a camera and a computer processor module. A camera hole (12) at the top of the enclosure allows the smartphone to photograph inside the enclosure. The smartphone controls the lights, takes pictures and displays the results, among others. The opening in this figure is a drawer (4) which is also visible in this figure, the drawer is opened and the stones to be tested are placed in the drawer, and then the drawer is closed to allow for testing.

[0102] Figure 3 illustrates a section view of a simulant diamond detection device. This figure shows an embodiment of the invention in which simulant diamond detection device has a computing module (5), a camera (6), and electronics circuit board (7). In this embodiment of the invention the computer processor module (5) controls the lights, the camera (6), the display, and can store the results for display on an external display which can be connected among others using the USB jack (2). Power is supplied by the DC Jack (3) visible in the picture. The drawer (4) which serves as an opening is also visible in this figure, the drawer is opened and the stones to be tested are placed in the drawer, and then the drawer is closed to allow for testing.

[0103] Figure 4 schematically illustrates an internal view of a simulant diamond detection device with green LED lights (8) and the filters switch (9) in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The filters switch (9) switches between the infrared block filter and the infrared pass filter. In an embodiment of the invention the stones are placed in the drawer (4) at the bottom of the figure. Then the white light (not visible in the figure) is turned on with the infrared block filter in place and a visible light picture is taken of the stones. In another embodiment of the invention the green LED lights (8) are turned on and the infrared pass filter is switched into place on the switch filter and a near infrared picture of the stones is taken.

[0104] Fig. 5 schematically illustrates a top view of the circuit board (7) in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The figure shows the camera (6), the computing module (5), and the electronic circuit board (7). The USB jack (2) and the DC jack (3) are also visible. In an embodiment of the invention the computing module controls the lights (not visible in figure), camera, and filter switch (not visible in figure) through the electronic circuit board.P-638963-PC

[0105] Fig. 6 schematically illustrates a bottom view of the circuit board in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The figure shows the lights (8) and the filter switch (9). In an embodiment of the invention the computer module through the electronic circuit board controls the lights (not visible in figure) turning on the white lights, and the filter switch (9) is switched switching the IR block filter into place (not visible in figure) and then takes a visible light picture with the camera. In another embodiment of the invention the computer module through the electronic circuit board controls the lights (not visible in figure) turning on the green lights (8), and the filter switch is switched switching the IR pass filter into place (not visible in figure) and then takes an infrared picture with the camera.

[0106] Fig. 7 schematically illustrates the filters switch showing the IR block filter (11) and the IR pass filter (10). The figure shows the IR switch (9) in two different states. In an embodiment of the invention the filter switch is switched to the IR block filter with the white lights turned on and then a visible light picture is taken with the camera. In another embodiment of the invention the filter switch is switched to the IR pass filter with the green lights turned on and then an infrared picture is taken with the camera.

[0107] Figure 8 is a flowchart depicting a method of operation of a simulant diamond detection device, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0108] In an embodiment of the invention Task 100 involves inserting stones into an opening such as a drawer and returning the opening into the lightproof enclosure.

[0109] In an embodiment of the invention, Task 101 involves operating the lights using the smartphone or the computing module to turn on the white light.

[0110] In an embodiment of the invention, Task 102 involves operating the filters switch to slider the IR block filter into under the camera or smartphone using the smartphone or the computing module. This then passes visible light under the camera or smartphone.

[0111] In an embodiment of the invention, Task 103 involves operating the smartphone or the computing module to zoom, focus, and take a visible light picture.P-638963-PC

[0112] In an embodiment of the invention, Task 104 involves operating the smartphone or the computing module to shut the white light and turn on the green light.

[0113] In an embodiment of the invention, Task 105 involves operating the smartphone or the computing module to operate the filters switch to slider the IR pass filter into place under the camera or smartphone and block visible light, and take an infrared picture.

[0114] In an embodiment of the invention, Task 106 involves operating the smartphone or the computing module to shut off the green light.

[0115] In an embodiment of the invention, Task 107 involves a processor processing the green light infrared picture for under / above threshold. The processor uses 3-5 different intensity thresholds sensitivities so the picture can be finetuned and to prevent noise. For example, 50%, 60%, 70%, 75%, 76%, 80%, 85%, 88%, 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, 99% can be used as percent intensity distribution thresholds. For example, 175, 190, 200, 210, 220, 225, 230 can be used as pixel intensity thresholds.

[0116] In an embodiment of the invention, Task 108 involves operating the smartphone or the computing module to process, obtain, and display three pictures, an original white light picture, a green light infrared picture, and a green or an original picture with false color processed and all above threshold stones are marked in color. Only stones over the percent intensity threshold are marked in false color.

[0117] Fig. 9A is a false color NIR green light image showing diamonds and simulants tested by the diamond simulant evaluation device. The stones with bright fluorescence seen in the image are cubic zirconia (CZ) simulants. The other stones with dim fluorescence are diamonds. The stone circled on the right with 98% of the peak intensity distribution above 200 on the sRGB 0-255 intensity scale is a simulant. The stone circled on the left with 99% of the peak intensity distribution below 200 on the sRGB scale is a diamond.

[0118] Fig. 9B is the same image in Fig. 9A showing diamonds and simulants tested by the diamond simulant evaluation device. The stones above the threshold are marked in red.P-638963-PC

[0119] Fig. 10A is a false color NIR green light image showing diamonds and simulants tested by the diamond simulant evaluation device. The stones with bright fluorescence seen in the image are cubic zirconia (CZ) simulants. The other stones with dim fluorescence are diamonds. The stone circled on the left with 90% of the peak intensity distribution above 200 pixels on the sRGB 0-255 intensity scale is a simulant. The stones circled on the right with 93% and 98% of the peak intensity distribution below 200 pixels on the sRGB scale are diamonds.

[0120] Fig. 10B is the same image in Fig. 10A showing diamonds and simulants tested by the diamond simulant evaluation device. The stones above the threshold are marked in red.

[0121] Fig. 11A is a false color NIR green light image showing diamonds and simulants tested by the diamond simulant evaluation device. The stones with bright fluorescence seen in the image are cubic zirconia (CZ) simulants. The other stones with dim fluorescence are diamonds. The stone circled on the left with 94% of the peak intensity distribution above 200 pixels on the sRGB 0-255 intensity scale is a simulant. The stones circled on the right with 93% and 99% of the peak intensity distribution below 200 pixels on the sRGB scale are diamonds.

[0122] Fig. 1 IB is the same image in Fig. 11 A showing diamonds and simulants tested by the diamond simulant evaluation device. The stones above the threshold are marked in red.

[0123] Fig. 12A is a false color NIR green light image showing diamonds and simulants tested by the diamond simulant evaluation device. The stones with bright fluorescence seen in the image are cubic zirconia (CZ) simulants. The other stones with dim fluorescence are diamonds. The stones circled on the left with 99% and 76% of the peak intensity distribution above 200 pixels on the sRGB scale are simulants. The stones circled on the right with 97% and 99% of the peak intensity distribution below 200 pixels on the sRGB 0-255 intensity scale are diamonds.

[0124] Fig. 12B is the same image in Fig. 12A showing diamonds and simulants tested by the diamond simulant evaluation device. The stones above the threshold are marked in red.P-638963-PC

[0125] Fig. 13 A is a false color NIR green light image showing diamonds tested by the diamond simulant evaluation device. The stones have dim fluorescence and are diamonds. The stones circled with 99% and 76% of the peak intensity distribution below 200 pixels on the sRGB 0-255 intensity scale are diamonds.

[0126] Fig. 13B is the same image in Fig. 13 A showing the diamonds tested by the diamond simulant evaluation device. There are no stones above the threshold and no markings in red.

[0127] Fig. 14A is a false color NIR green light image showing CZ tested by the diamond simulant evaluation device. The stones have bright fluorescence and are CZ. The stone circled on the left with 99% of the peak intensity distribution above 200 pixels on the RGB scale is a larger CZ stone. The stone circled on the right with 85% of the peak intensity distribution above 200 pixels on the sRGB 0-225 intensity scale is a smaller CZ stone.

[0128] Fig. 14B is the same image in Fig. 14B showing the CZ tested by the diamond simulant evaluation device. The stones are all above the threshold and are all marked in red.

[0129] Fig. 15A is a false color NIR green light image showing diamonds and simulants tested by the diamond simulant evaluation device. The stones with bright fluorescence seen in the image are White Sapphire simulants. The other stones with dim fluorescence are diamonds. The stone circled on the left with 99% of the peak intensity distribution above 200 pixels on the sRGB 0-255 intensity scale is a simulant. The stones circled on the right with 97% of the peak intensity distribution below 200 pixels on the sRGB scale are diamonds.

[0130] Fig. 15A is the same image in Fig. 15B showing diamonds and simulants tested by the diamond simulant evaluation device. The stones above the threshold are marked in red.

[0131] Different embodiments are disclosed herein. Features of certain embodiments may be combined with features of other embodiments; thus certain embodiments may be combinations of features of multiple embodiments. The foregoing description of the embodiments of the invention has been presented for the purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the inventionP-638963-PC to the precise form disclosed. It should be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that many modifications, variations, substitutions, changes, and equivalents are possible in light of the above teaching. It is, therefore, to be understood that the appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications and changes as fall within the true spirit of the invention.

[0132] While certain features of the invention have been illustrated and described herein, many modifications, substitutions, changes, and equivalents will now occur to those of ordinary skill in the art. It is, therefore, to be understood that the appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications and changes as fall within the true spirit of the invention.

Claims

P-638963-PCCLAIMS1. A bulk diamond simulant evaluation device for evaluating stones, the device comprising: a lightproof enclosure; a camera hole in the enclosure that allows for a camera view into the enclosure; an opening for introducing stones that opens into the lightproof enclosure; at least one white light source configured to illuminate the stones positioned above the stones; at least one green light source configured to illuminate the stones positioned above the stones; an infrared block filter below the camera hole at the top of the enclosure wherein the infrared block filter cuts-off light; a near infrared pass filter below the camera hole at the top of the enclosure wherein the infrared pass filter passes Near Infrared light; a slider that can switch between the filters; a detector for detecting light that is emitted by the stones through the camera view, the detector capable of detecting light as near infrared fluorescence during illumination of the stones by the green light source and detecting visible light during illumination of the stones by the white light source; a display for displaying the result of detection of the emitted light so as to enable at least distinguishing between emission of near infrared red (NIR) fluorescence that is characteristic of a simulant, and a NIR fluorescence that is characteristic of a diamond.

2. The detector of claim 1 wherein a smartphone with a processor, camera, and display acting as the detector to detect visible light during illumination by the white light source of the stones and emission of near infrared fluorescence light during illumination of the stones by the green light source; wherein the smartphone is capable of producing pictures; wherein the smartphone display is capable of displaying the result of detection of the emitted light so as to enableP-638963-PC at least distinguishing between emission of near infrared red (NIR) fluorescence that is characteristic of a simulant, and a NIR fluorescence that is characteristic of a diamond.

3. The detector of claim 1 wherein a camera, electronics circuit board, and computer processer module and display acting as the detector to detect visible light during illumination by the white light source of the stones and emission of near infrared fluorescence light during illumination of the stones green light source; wherein the computer processor is capable of producing pictures; wherein the display is capable of displaying the result of detection of the emitted light so as to enable at least distinguishing between emission of near infrared red (NIR) fluorescence that is characteristic of a simulant, and a NIR fluorescence that is characteristic of a diamond.

4. The device of any one of claims 1-3, wherein the device is configured to display the detected fluorescence as falsely colored pixels on a color image.

5. The device of any one of claims 1-3, wherein the green light source is LEDs, bulbs, or other forms of green light.

6. The device of any one of claims 1-3, wherein the white light source is LEDs, bulbs, or other forms of white light.

7. The device of any one of claims 1-3, wherein the infrared block filter cuts-off light above about 750 nm.

8. The device of any one of claims 1-3, wherein the infrared pass filter passes NIR light at between 850 nm and 915 nm.

9. The device of any one of claims 1-3, wherein the green light source is configured to emit green light in the range of 510 nm to 590 nm.

10. The device of any one of claims 1-3, wherein the device can be integrated with other diamond detection devices.I L A method of operation of a bulk diamond simulant evaluation device for evaluating stones of any one of claims 1-10, the method comprising: sliding the block IR filter into place in front of the camera, so the camera detects only visible light;P-638963-PC inserting the stone into the opening of the light proof enclosure and returning the opening into the lightproof enclosure; turning on the white light of the device to illuminate the stone; zooming in or out, focusing and taking a picture; shutting off the white light and turning on the green light; sliding the infrared pass filter into place and taking a picture; shutting off the green light; activating the processor in smartphone or computer processor module to process green light picture for under or above threshold; processing, obtaining, and displaying three pictures showing original white light, green light, and a green or original with false color processed and all above threshold stones marked in color.

12. The method according to claim 11, wherein the processor uses 3-5 different intensity thresholds sensitivities.

13. The method according to claim 11 or claim 12, wherein the displayed picture contains an indication of the infrared fluorescence of the stone to enable distinguishing between strong near infrared fluorescence that is characteristic of a simulant and weak near infrared fluorescence that is characteristic of a diamond.

14. The method according to any one of claims 11-13, wherein the displaying includes applying a false color to indicate a location in the color image where the above threshold fluorescence was detected.

15. The method according to any one of claims 11-14, wherein stones with at least 50% of the pixels having an intensity of more than 200 on a 0-255 intensity scale according to IEC 61966-2-1 digital still image coding standard (sRGB) standard are simulants.

16. The method according any one of claims 11-15, wherein stones with at least 50% of the pixels have an intensity of less than 200 in a 0-255 digital image coding standard (sRGB) intensity scale are diamonds.

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