EditorsJul 12, 2021
5 Things to Know About … CoralSourcingFeb 17, 2022
Scientists Develop Genetic Testing Method for Coral Identification
Researchers from SSEF and the University of Zurich wanted to be able to separate the species protected by CITES from those that aren’t.
Precious coral samples seized by Swiss customs were used to test the new Coral-ID method developed by scientists from the Swiss Gemmological Institute SSEF and the University of Zurich. (Photo credit: SSEF)
Basel, Switzerland—Scientists from the Swiss Gemmological Institute SSEF and the University of Zurich have created a new genetic test for coral identification they say provides a breakthrough in traceability.
A 2020 study initially found the presence of DNA in precious corals, which led the authors to the conclusion that genetic testing of precious coral jewelry could be used to identify its species.
SSEF began offering coral identification services in partnership with the Institute of Forensic Medicine that summer as a result.
Building upon the 2020 findings, SSEF and the university’s Institute of Forensic Medicine further developed the methodology for genetic testing of precious coral objects, with the aim of being able to separate materials protected by the international treaty called CITES from those that aren’t.
Four precious coral species used in the jewelry trade are listed in CITES’ Appendix III, which means they require species-specific and county-of-origin documentation to be traded and transported across international borders.
Up to now, customs authorities have relied on the color of a coral specimen to indicate the species identity, SSEF said, noting there are issues with this reliability since different coral species can have similar color ranges.
Related stories will be right here …
A 2020 study initially found the presence of DNA in precious corals, which led the authors to the conclusion that genetic testing of precious coral jewelry could be used to identify its species.
SSEF began offering coral identification services in partnership with the Institute of Forensic Medicine that summer as a result.
Building upon the 2020 findings, SSEF and the university’s Institute of Forensic Medicine further developed the methodology for genetic testing of precious coral objects, with the aim of being able to separate materials protected by the international treaty called CITES from those that aren’t.
Four precious coral species used in the jewelry trade are listed in CITES’ Appendix III, which means they require species-specific and county-of-origin documentation to be traded and transported across international borders.
Up to now, customs authorities have relied on the color of a coral specimen to indicate the species identity, SSEF said, noting there are issues with this reliability since different coral species can have similar color ranges.
The result of the recent study is designed to aid in this area—the team developed a forensically validated genetic technique called Coral-ID, which uses quasi non-destructive sampling to identify species.
They tested Coral-ID on 20 samples that had been seized by the Swiss customs authorities between 2009 and 2017 because they lacked valid CITES documentation.
Thirteen could be analyzed; three were thought to be from CITES-listed species, while 10 originated from non-CITES-listed species.
The full report was published in in scientific journal Forensic Science International: Genetics and can be found online.
“The research shows the importance of carrying out fundamental science and peer-reviewed research on raw materials used in the jewelry industry. Genetic analysis of precious corals is clearly a very useful tool to achieve greater transparency in the trade,” said SSEF Director Michael S. Krzemnicki.
More on Sourcing
The Latest
ColumnistsJan 07, 2026
Peter Smith: Physical Retail—The Beginning or the End?As the shopping mall model evolves and online retail grows, Smith shares his predictions for the future of physical stores.
Events & AwardsJan 07, 2026
Melee Adds 13 New Designers to NYC ShowThe trade show is slated for Jan. 31-Feb. 2 at The Lighthouse in New York City's Chelsea neighborhood.
TrendsJan 07, 2026
Amanda’s Style File: Go for GarnetJanuary’s birthstone comes in a rainbow of colors, from the traditional red to orange, purple, and green.
Brought to you by
Impacting Tomorrow TodayHow Jewelers of America’s 20 Under 40 are leading to ensure a brighter future for the jewelry industry.
CrimeJan 06, 2026
2 Jewelers Arrested After TraxNYC Diamond District BrawlFootage of a fight breaking out in the NYC Diamond District was viewed millions of times on Instagram and Facebook.
Weekly QuizDec 23, 2025
This Week’s QuizTest your jewelry news knowledge by answering these questions.
MajorsJan 06, 2026
Rio Grande Says These Are the Top Personalization Tools for 2026The supplier has a curated list of must-have tools for jewelers doing in-house custom work this year.
MajorsJan 06, 2026
Zales Tests Out A New LookThe Signet Jewelers-owned store, which turned 100 last year, calls its new concept stores “The Edit.”
Brought to you by
Roseco Releases New Full-Line CatalogRoseco’s 704-page catalog showcases new lab-grown diamonds, findings, tools & more—available in print or interactive digital editions.
MajorsJan 06, 2026
LeachGarner Appoints New Director of SalesLinda Coutu is rejoining the precious metals provider as its director of sales.
TrendsJan 05, 2026
Amanda’s Style File: New Year’s EditionSparkle with festive diamond jewelry as we celebrate the beginning of 2026.
IndependentsJan 05, 2026
Jeweler Ben Nighthorse Campbell Dies at 92The master jeweler, Olympian, former senator, and Korean War veteran founded the brand Nighthorse Jewelry.
TrendsJan 05, 2026
Pinterest 2026 Trend Report: Brooches, Bold Gold, Cool BlueIn its annual report, Pinterest noted an increase in searches for brooches, heirloom jewelry, and ‘80s luxury.
MajorsJan 02, 2026
Marc Metrick Out as CEO of Saks Global Executive Chairman Richard Baker will take over the role as rumors swirl that a bankruptcy filing is imminent for the troubled retailer.
Events & AwardsJan 02, 2026
Jan Mohr, Couture’s ‘North Star,’ Dies at 71Mohr had just retired in June after more than two decades as Couture’s retailer liaison.
SourcingJan 02, 2026
IDCA Elects New President, Board of DirectorsShekhar Shah of Real Gems Inc. will serve as president of the Indian Diamond & Colorstone Association in 2026.
CollectionsJan 02, 2026
Lalaounis’ 2026 Good Luck Charm Speaks to ResilienceThis year’s good luck charm features the mythical horse Pegasus, and is our first Piece of the Week of the new year.
EditorsDec 31, 2025
The Top 5 Stories of 2025Articles about crime, engagement rings, and a necklace worn in the World Series generated the most interest among readers.
MajorsDec 30, 2025
Becka Johnson Kibby to Lead Edge Retail AcademyAs part of the leadership transition, Sherry Smith will take on the role of vice president of coaching strategy and development.
SourcingDec 30, 2025
India Chosen as KP Chair for 2026It marks the third time the country has headed the Kimberley Process. Ghana will serve as vice chair.
WatchesDec 30, 2025
Bulova, Stetson Collab on Watches With Western FlairThe new Bulova x Stetson designs highlight two animals often associated with the American West—the bison and the Texas Longhorn.
CollectionsDec 30, 2025
Rahaminov Diamonds Pops Up in FloridaIts residency at Yamron Jewelers will run through May 2026.
IndependentsDec 29, 2025
In Memoriam: Industry Friends We Lost in 2025From influential executives to innovative designers, we pay tribute to the people we said goodbye to this year.
MajorsDec 29, 2025
Tanishq Opens New Stores in Florida, VirginiaThe retailer is expanding into areas with large Indian and South Asian populations.
MajorsDec 29, 2025
Nanis Opens First Flagship Store The Italian brand has opened its first flagship amid the peaks of the Dolomites in Madonna di Campiglio, Italy.
SourcingDec 29, 2025
‘Unearthed: Raw Beauty’ Exhibition Opens at LA MuseumThe new curation at the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County showcases rare gem and mineral specimens in their uncut, natural state.
CrimeDec 24, 2025
LA Jewelry District Couple Pleads Guilty to Hiding Millions from IRSThe couple pleaded guilty to concealing at least $127 million in cash transactions at its precious metals businesses.
SurveysDec 24, 2025
Consumer Confidence Falls Again in DecemberConsumers shared concerns about prices, inflation, tariffs, trade, and politics in the survey’s write-in response section.
