New emerald test could foil gem smugglers

A new technique that can show where an emerald was mined could help to clamp down on smuggling of the gems, says New Scientist magazine.

French experts have developed a way to use an infrared device to show where emeralds come from, without causing any damage to the stones.

The technique could help the Columbian Government, which is struggling to regulate its lucrative emerald industry.

The jewel trade has been linked to drug trafficking and paramilitary groups in Colombia.

The French team is discussing licensing the technology to the Colombian Government.