DiaLab Cape Town in conjunction with Perkin Elmer might be releasing the first software module for “ Infrared Organic Fingerprinting Identification” (IOFI) “as early as next year. The Prototype for commercial use will be used for data inventory control of diamonds and gems by mining companies. It will allow diamond and gem mining companies to record the data and have a Stock control system based on “ Infrared Organic Fingerprinting Identification” (IOFI) “ Although this is still in pioneering stages the mere fact of data inventory control can set the path for future control on the diamond and gem industry.

PerkinElmer Inc. Is one of the largest American multinational technology corporation, focused in the business areas of human and environmental health, including environmental analysis, food and consumer product safety, medical imaging, drug discovery, diagnostics, biotechnology, industrial applications, and life science research. PerkinElmer produces analytical instruments, genetic testing and diagnostic tools, medical imaging components, software, instruments, and consumables for multiple end markets.

The two companies have been working under a non-disclosure collaboration agreement since earlier this year. Since they have been working together on the development plan and implementation of the new data control system. Till now there is no product on the market that can successfully identify a single diamond from thousands. DiaLab together with Perkin Elmer were the first to pioneer the use of such technology. DiaLab filed the provisional patent earlier this year that will make use of this “Infrared Organic Fingerprinting Identification” (IOFI) method as a Data control system. The Spokes person for DiaLab said that the processing system and software will not be compatible with any other FTIR products that can scan a diamonds or gems.

The highly secured research laboratory of DiaLab has made waves within the industry and has not been well received within the diamond industry of South Africa.  Perhaps it is the fear of control.