New Tweezers Double as Diamond Weigher

The VIBE-130 weighing tweezers

The centuries old traditional diamond trade may not strike many as a natural match with hi-tech, and those hi-tech items with which we are familiar are usually found in gem labs and polishing facilities, but one firm is bringing such tools to the front desk, introducing electronic tweezers that weigh and measure the diameter of the diamond in an instant.

Making a sheepish debut at the Hong Kong Watch & Jewellery Fair, the VIBE-130 weighs all shapes of polished stones, from 0.005 to 1.5 carats.

Developed by Jerusalem-based D.A.T.A. Diamond Advanced Technology, it spares the need for a level base or special preparation to ensure that air conditioning and drafts do not distort results.

A push of the button opens the tweezers, and a small indicator ensures the device is held straight. The results are displayed instantly on a small screen on top of the light weight device.

Sold for $1,200, it operates using a specially developed vibration technology that the company has created over the past five years.

The data can be transmitted using Bluetooth technology to a computer – into a diamond inventory program or an Excel sheet.