PRESIDIUM Synthetic Ruby Identifier Instruction Manual

2
Contents
English Version
I. Disclaimers, Exclusions and Limitations of Liability
II. About this book
III. About your Presidium Synthetic Ruby Identifier
IV. Background and Development of Presidium Synthetic
Ruby Identifer
V. Important Notice
1. GETTING STARTED with your Synthetic Ruby Identifier
2. PERFORMING A TEST with your Synthetic Ruby Identifier
3. READING TEST RESULTS on your Synthetic Ruby Identifier
4. OVERVIEW OF INDICATORS on your Synthetic Ruby
Identifier
5. TAKING CARE of your Synthetic Ruby Identifier
PG.
3
4
4
9
10
12
17
25
28
30

3
I. Disclaimers, Exclusions and Limitations
of Liability
PLEASE READ AND NOTE PRESIDIUM WARRANTY TERMS AND
CONDITIONS as stated in the warranty card. Presidium warranty for
its devices are subject to proper use by its users in accordance with all
the terms and conditions as stated in the relevant user handbook and
shall cover only manufacturing defects.
Due to continuous product improvement, Presidium reserves the right
to revise all documents including the right to make changes to the
handbook without notice and without obligation to notify any person
of such revisions or changes. Users are advised to check Presidium’s
website from time to time http://www.presidium.com.sg/
Presidium shall not be responsible for any damage or loss resulting
from the use of this product or handbook.
Under no circumstances shall Presidium, its manufacturer or any of
its subsidiaries, licensors, distributors, reseller, servant and/or agent
be liable for any direct or indirect damages, resulting from the use of
this device.
TO THE MAXIMUM EXTENT PERMITTED BY APPLICABLE LAW,
under no circumstances shall Presidium, its manufacturer or any
of its subsidiaries, licensors, distributors, reseller, servant and/or
agent be responsible for any special, incidental, consequential or
indirect damages howsoever caused.
The Synthetic Ruby Identifier (“SRI”) by Presidium in this handbook
is provided and/or sold on an “as is” basis. Except as required by
applicable law, no warranties of any kind expressed or implied,
including, but not limited to, the implied warranties of merchantability
and fitness for a particular purpose.

4
II. About this Book
Thank you for purchasing the world’s first and only Synthetic Ruby
Identifier (“SRI” or “device”) by Presidium.
This handbook is designed to help you set up your device and
describes all you need to know about how to use your gemstone
testing device accurately and take care of it, in line with its
requirements. Please read these instructions carefully and keep them
handy for future reference.
This book also contains the terms and conditions in relation to
the use of the device including the Disclaimer, EXCLUSION and
Limitation of Liability clauses stated above in Section I.
III. About the Synthetic Ruby Identifier by
Presidium
The Presidium Synthetic Ruby Identifier (“SRI”) is a revolutionary
new device developed to help identify amongst rubies, the synthetic
ruby that is created through the flame fusion method. Researched
and developed by Presidium in collaboration with the renowned Gem
and Jewelry Institute of Thailand (GIT) near the traditional source
hub of rubies, the Synthetic Ruby Identifier is a breakthrough in the
development of gemological instruments, as it is the world’s first and
only tool, aside from expensive laboratory equipment, that identifies
certain common synthetic rubies.
The Synthetic Ruby Identifier is designed as a test on known ruby
stones and to differentiate the synthetic flame fusion rubies from
natural and other forms of synthetic ruby. One way to ascertain if
the gemstone is a ruby is to measure the thermal conductivity of the
gemstone. If the gemstone is a ruby, the Synthetic Ruby Identifier can
be used to further check if it is a synthetic flame fusion ruby.
Using the knowledge that when gemstones are subjected to deep
UV irradiation, the difference in their light transmittance is significant
enough to aid in differentiating known rubies, the Synthetic Ruby
Identifier measures the UV light transmittance ability of ruby stones,
as research1has found that synthetic flame fusion rubies are
consistently more transparent to deep UV light.
1 Sim, Hwa San; Leelawatanasuk, Thanong & Saengbuangamlam, Saengthip. “Handheld
Synthetic Ruby Screener based on UV-VIS Light Absorption” in GIT 2012 (Bangkok; Gem
& Jewelry Institute of Thailand, 2012), pp199-204.

5
The Synthetic Ruby Identifier features a deep-wave UV light that is
activated to pass through the ruby towards the photo-detector on the
base platform. Bars of coloured light on the front of the lid will provide
an easy reading that indicates if the UV light transmittance ability of
the tested ruby is high or low. Usually, a natural ruby will have a low
UV transmittance due to the trace elements within that absorb the
deep UV light. Other types of synthetic rubies such as those created
through the flux and hydrothermal methods could either have high or
low UV transmittance ability, depending on the presence of transition
metal ions introduced during the growth process and hence the device
cannot accurately identify those synthetic rubies. A synthetic flame
fusion ruby which is the most common type of synthetic ruby though,
will usually have few transition metal ions (mainly Chromium,Cr)
due to relatively ‘pure’ melt growth process, resulting in high UV
transmittance.
Created with the user in mind, the Synthetic Ruby Identifier is
engineered to allow for very quick screening of single mounted ruby
stones (with open-back setting) and loose rubies to check if they are
synthetic flame fusion rubies. It is designed as a lightweight, portable,
sturdy and non-slip unit and it can be powered by 4 AAA batteries or
through its USB port connecting to an external power source.
The Synthetic Ruby Identifier has been subjected to thorough and
extensive laboratory testing in collaboration with the Gem & Jewelry
Institute of Thailand (GIT), and will generally give clear and reliable
reading of the ruby being tested. This device only helps to identify a
certain type of synthetic ruby and to ascertain if your tested ruby is
natural or other forms of synthetic ruby, you are advised to conduct
further supporting tests.
The device was designed with the following objectives:
• Help to further quickly identify one type of common synthetic,
the synthetic flame fusion ruby from amongst known rubies
• Aid to further enable identifying natural ruby by screening out one
type of synthetic ruby
• Provide consistent and reliable test results under proper use and
understanding of its functions
• Feature user-safe materials and user-friendly ergonomics that gives
clear visibility of results, maximum sturdiness and grip, ease of use
and portability

6
The capabilities of the Synthetic Ruby Identier are as follows:
• Help to identify most synthetic flame fusion rubies
• Tests on rubies within a range in dimension from 3 mm in width and
up to 6mm in height (approx. 0.1 to 6 carat size)
• Tests on polished rubies of common shapes such as round-cut,
oval-cut, princess cut, brilliant round cut, emerald cut, baguette cut,
square brilliant cut, step cut and mixed cut
• Can be used on both loose stones and rubies mounted on jewelry
with open-back setting
• Complete testing almost instantaneously
The user is cautioned against using the Synthetic Ruby Identier
on the following as it may affect the accuracy of the readings:
× Unknown stones (users should only test on known rubies)
× Rough, unpolished stones
× Stones that are more than 6mm in height as the specific UV
wavelength has limited ray reach
× Opaque or translucent stones, and stones of dark red shades
× Testing if the stone has been subjected to treatments such as heat
irradiation and glass-filling
× Testing to identify other forms of synthetically created rubies such
as synthetic hydrothermal or synthetic flux stones
× Mounted stones more than 6mm in height on ring jewelry with
inside diameter measuring larger than 14.88mm (Italy ring size 6)
The Synthetic Ruby Identier features the following:
• The world’s first and only technology that measures a gemstone’s
UV light transmittance ability with a specific deep-wave UV to help
identify synthetic flame fusion rubies
• 7 colour coded (blue/red) indicator light bars to give a clear low or
high reading of light transmittance
• Instantaneous clear results within 2 seconds
• Exterior rubber pads on base to ensure non-slip sturdiness and
prevent scratches to surfaces
• Stream-lined ergonomic design that enhances portability and
stability
• Low battery indicator
• Energy-saving auto power-off of device after 10 minutes without
operation
• Interior LED light source and testing area
• Energy-saving auto power-off of interior LED light source when lid of
device is open or when Start Test button is not activated

7
The interior LED source and testing area features:
• UV light source pre-set at an optimum wavelength to accurately
measure the light transmittance ability of rubies
• Light source latch to enable future removal/replacement/change of
light source
• User-friendly lever to secure the gemstone in place on base platform
• Ring guide placement markings on the light source
• Concentric circles marking the base platform in the testing area to
place the stone
• UV-sensitive Photo-detector in the centre of base platform to detect
the amount of light that passes through the stone
The connectivity functions of the Synthetic Ruby Identier
include:
• Exterior USB port at back of unit for connecting to external power
source or computer
• International voltage compatibility
Included in your package:
• Presidium Synthetic Ruby Identifier unit
• Protective carrying case with interior accessories pouch
• USB cable
• Presidium Universal Power Adaptor
• Quick Guide
• QR Code Card

8
2
8
1
5
7
10
9
6
4
3
Fig.A Synthetic Ruby Identifier Unit
Features/Functions (Fig.A)
1. Power button (On/Off, Low Battery Indicator and Bluetooth
Connectivity Indicator)
2. Lid
3 Base platform with concentric markings
4. Photo-detector
5. Interior LED Light Source with Ring Guide embossed on top
6. Light Source Lever to adjust Light Source
7. LED Light Source Replacement Latch
8. “Start Test” button
9. 7 Indicator Bars measuring UV Light Transmittance from
Low to High
10. Micro USB port

9
Specications
Length
Width
Height
Weight without batteries
Weight with batteries
Power
130mm
100mm
65mm
210grams
250grams
4 AAA Batteries or via USB cable
connected to external power source
IV. Background and Development of
Presidium Synthetic Ruby Identifier
The world of colored gemstones is a sparkling but somewhat mystical
one. Unlike diamonds which have an established grading system
that appraises a diamond based on colour, cut, clarity and colour,
colored gemstones do not have a similar universal appraisal system.
Furthermore, the range of colours can be seen across both precious
and semi-precious stones allowing some people to mistake one easily
for the other. The discovery of equally colourful synthetic materials
may have also undermined the appreciation and authenticity of
precious colored gems especially the corundum stones – sapphires
and rubies.
Rubies, with its stunning red shades have captured the hearts of many
since the ancient times. With such popularity, synthetic rubies have
been man-made from as early as the 1800s with the Verneuil process
which creates what is known to be flame fusion rubies. With its simple
technology, low cost and convincing yield, it still remains a process
that is widely used today.
Through the years as methods and technology gained sophistication,
other crystal growth processes were discovered such as the flux
method or the hydrothermal method. The methods developed to
identify such synthetic gems are often limited only to gemology-
trained experts or to the use of expensive laboratory equipment and
it is difficult for most buyers to ascertain if synthetic gems may be
marketed, sold and mixed with natural rubies.
With the knowledge of this, Presidium set out to work on researching
more about synthetic rubies and developing a device that can aid in
the quick identification of such rubies.

10
It is known that due to impurities or transition metal ions that are
usually found in natural rubies, these stones are able to absorb
deep UV light. Thus the UV transmittance ability of such stones is
low. For synthetic flame fusion rubies, it was found that they usually
did not contain such trace elements or impurities. Hence, the UV
transmittance ability of synthetic flame fusion rubies is high, allowing
the UV wavelength to pass through the stone.
This knowledge was shared with the Gem and Jewelry Institute of
Thailand (GIT) which recognised and endorsed this methodology of
utilizing the UV-VIS-NIR spectroscopy to measure the transmittance
for identifying synthetic and natural rubies.
Believing this was a radical new methodology to identify certain
gemstones, GIT also loaned Presidium a substantial sample size
of both natural and synthetic ruby stones for testing and identifying.
Presidium was able test these stones using the Synthetic Ruby
Identifier and have the tests confirmed using GIT’s advanced
laboratory equipment. Working closely with researchers at GIT who
readily shared their gemmological knowledge, testing trials for the
Synthetic Ruby Identifier were also conducted by GIT for Presidium.
V. Important notice
• Keep the device dry. Precipitation and all types of liquids or moisture
can contain minerals that will corrode electronic circuits. If your
device gets wet, remove the battery and allow the device to dry
completely before replacing it.
• Do not use, store or expose the device in dusty, dirty areas. Its
moving parts and electronic component may get damaged.
• Do not use, store or expose the device in hot areas. High
temperatures can damage or shorten the life of the device, damage
batteries, and warp or melt certain plastics.
• Do not use, store or expose the device in cold areas. When the
device returns to its normal temperature, moisture can form inside
the device and damage electronic circuit boards.
• Do not attempt to open the device other than as instructed in this
handbook.
• Do not drop, knock, or shake the device. Rough handling may break
internal circuit boards and fine mechanics.
• Do not use harsh chemicals, cleaning solvents, or strong detergents
to clean the device.
• Do not paint the device. Paint can clog the moving parts and prevent
proper operation.

11
If the device is not working properly, kindly contact Presidium
Customer Service at [email protected] or:
Presidium Instruments Pte Ltd
Unit 7, 207 Henderson Road
Singapore 159550
Attn: Customer Service Executive

12
1. Getting started with your
Synthetic Ruby Identifier
1.1 Powering up your device
The Synthetic Ruby Identifier can be powered either by the use
of batteries or through the USB cable connected to the Presidium
Universal Power Adaptor that are both included with your product, or
to an external power source.
If batteries are used, you can locate the battery well at the bottom of
the unit. Release the two catches on the battery cover and remove the
battery cover to reveal the battery well. (Fig 1.1)
4 AAA batteries are needed to power the device. Do take note of the
positive (+) and negative (-) directions of the batteries when inserting
them into device. The use of alkaline batteries is recommended
as it should generally give 2.5 hours of continuous operation with
approximately 900 tests.
Fig.1.1 Removing the battery cover to reveal the battery well

13
If an external power source is used, plug the provided micro USB
cable to the port located at the back of the device (Fig 1.2) and the
other end to the provided Presidium Universal Power Adaptor for
connection to an external power socket.
You may also connect the other end of the USB cable directly to an
external power source (e.g. computer, laptop, etc).
It is recommended you use only the USB cable and the Presidium
Universal Power Adaptor provided with your product.
Fig.1.2 Plug the micro USB into the port located
at the back of the device

14
1.2 Switching on your device
To switch on your Synthetic Ruby Identifier, press and hold the
Power button located at the front of the unit. A blue light will blink for
approximately 20 seconds to allow the product to warm up. (Fig 1.3).
Once the blue light stops blinking and remains stable, the device is
ready for use.
Fig.1.3 Switch on Synthetic Ruby Identifier
with the Power button
Low High Start Test
UV T ransmittance

15
1.3 Switching off your device and
Power-Saving Auto-Off
To switch off your Synthetic Ruby Identifier, press and hold the Power
button for approximately 2 seconds until the light goes off.
To ensure that your Synthetic Ruby Identifier conserves power, the
unit will automatically switch off 10 minutes after the last activity.
1.4 Low Battery Indicator
When the battery is too low for the device to function, the Power
button light will turn red (Fig 1.4).
Low High Start Test
UV T ransmittance
Fig.1.4 Low Battery Indicator in Red Light on Power Button

16
When this Low Battery Indicator is lit in red, the device is not able to
conduct any more tests and the LED light source inside the device will
not be able to be switched on.
Replace the batteries or switch power source as necessary.
Battery Information
Do not leave worn out batteries in the battery compartment as the
batteries may corrode or leak, and damage the circuitry of the device.
It is recommended that batteries should be removed when the device
is expected to be stored for an extended period of time.
Batteries do not have to be removed from the unit when the Presidium
Power Universal Adaptor is used through the USB cable.
1.5 Power Button Overview
For a full overview of the Power Button and its functions, please refer
to Section 5 in this book – “Overview of Indicators on your Synthetic
Ruby Identifier”.

17
Low High Start Test
UV T ransmittance
2. Performing a test with your
Synthetic Ruby Identifier
The Synthetic Ruby Identifier can only work accurately with known
rubies and in identifying the commonly found synthetic flame fusion
ruby amongst known rubies.
Before you begin a test, ascertain that the type of red stone that you
are testing is a known ruby. There are many ways to check this based
on the inherent properties of rubies. One way you can check is to
use the Presidium Gem Tester which tests based on the gemstone’s
property of thermal conductivity. If your red stone falls within the Ruby
– Sapphire range, you are likely to have a known ruby.
Once you know your stone is a ruby, you can proceed to use the
Synthetic Ruby Identifier to check if it is a synthetic flame fusion ruby.
The “Start Test” button located at the top right corner of the device
indicates when the device is ready for testing and activates the interior
LED light source to begin the identifying procedure.
Press the “Start Test” button and the button will be lit in blue. This
indicates the device is ready to begin testing. (Fig 2.1)
You should only begin to use the device for testing when the “Start
Test” button is lit in a steady blue.
Fig.2.1 Press “Start Test” button to perform a test

18
Once the device is ready for testing, use the finger grips on the front of
the lid to lift the lid and access the interior testing area. (Fig 2.2)
Fig.2.2 Lift the lid of the device using the finger grips on the front

19
The testing is performed under the lid of the Synthetic Ruby Identifier
where a testing area is marked by a concentric-circled base platform
with a Photo-detector in the centre and a protruding overhead LED
light source (Fig 2.3).
The following instructions will guide you through testing loose
gemstones and mounted jewelry.
Fig.2.3 The interior testing area inside the device

20
2.1 For testing on loose gemstones
Ensure your loose gemstone is wide enough to cover the Photo-
detector. It should be approximately 3mm in width.Your loose
gemstone should also not exceed 6mm in height to ensure that the
UV wavelength transmitted by the LED light source can be accurately
measured.
Place the loose gemstone over the Photo-detector (Fig 2.4).
Fig.2.4 Placing the loose gemstone on the Photo-detector
The flattest side of the stone should be placed face-down on the
Photo-detector.
Ensure that the Photo-detector is completely covered by the gemstone
so that the emitted wavelength is through the stone material.
Should the Photo-detector not be completely covered by the
gemstone, the emitted UV light will not be able to pass through the
stone, reaching the Photo-detector instead and will give an inaccurate
reading of the UV light transmittance ability of the stone material.

21
Adjust the lever to lower the LED light source and secure the
gemstone in place on the Photo-detector for testing (Fig 2.5).
Fig.2.5 Adjust the LED light source downwards to secure the
gemstone in place on the Photo-detector
Close the lid and press the “Start Test” button.
The button will begin to blink in white whilst the test is being
performed. When the test is complete, the button will be lit in a steady
white light and your test results will be displayed in the 7 Indicator
Lights.You should see your results within 2 seconds.
Users are recommended to place each ruby stone in at least 4
different positions since the test results could be influenced by the
positioning of the ruby. Always place the flattest face of the stone on
the Photo-detector.
To understand your test results, refer to Section 3 in this book –
“Reading test results on your Synthetic Ruby Identifier”.