This month Anu Manchanda explains the expertise required to check for common treatments in tanzanite and rubies. Anu Manchanda picks up the tanzanite in her tweezers and holds it under her diamond light. At first sight a non-gemmologist would think it a good quality stone – a deep indigo blue with strong colour intensity; but to Anu’s experienced eye as a gemmologist it just does not look quite right. Anu moves it slowly under the light, examining it carefully with …

Marketing Director Marion Wilson pictured at the event[/caption] Marion also attended the Awards Dinner which was held  in the Skyline Restaurant at the Brighton Centre.  The evening began with a drinks reception followed by a very scrumptious three course dinner! The Birmingham Assay Office were delighted to sponsor this years UK Consumer Challange Quiz. The competition tests pupils on their knowledge of shopping rights and responsibilities, perso…

North Ayrshire’s operation revealed consumer malpractice which involved not only non-hallmarking of articles but manufacture of under-carat products. Like most parts of the UK, North Ayrshire has seen an explosion in the trading of scrap gold in recent years, driven by the high price of gold and the consumer squeeze. Trading Standards set out to monitor the local market place to ensure a fair trading environment for buyers and sellers alike. Their close scrutiny and “mystery sho…