A Hong Kong-based firm, Diamond Services Ltd. is unveiling a screening device that detects and differentiates synthetic diamonds, both HPHT and CVD-grown, from their natural counterparts. The device, a pen-shaped pointer called the DiamaPen, will be introduced at this month's Hong Kong Gem & Jewellery Fair, where it will be offered to diamond traders for US$199.

"We have conducted a series of tests both on synthetic diamonds produced by means of the classic HPHT methods, as well as on CVD diamonds produced by Gemesis," says J. Kuzi, owner and Chief Executive Officer of EGL Asia, who tested the DiamaPen.

"The detection of fancy yellow synthetics is the easiest and fastest job for the DiamaPen. The procedure takes a bit longer for colorless CVD synthetics, but in all cases the testing results are consistent and highly satisfactory. While this new device is not a replacement for a full-scale identification run in a gemological laboratory, it is and will be an important tool for those working in the diamond industry and trade," adds Kuzi.

According to Kuzi, due to the high-power output of the DiamaPen's laser beam, anyone handling the laser pen will need to wear special safety glasses.

The June Hong Kong Gem and Jewellery Fair takes place from June 21 to 24, 2012, at the Hong Kong Convention Centre in Wanchai, Hong Kong.