From left: Dr. Michael S. Krzemnicki, Director of the Swiss Gemmological Institute SSEF, and Mr. Ali Safar.
SSEF director Dr. Michael S. Krzemnicki said: "We feel that while the natural pearl trade is being challenged by increasing amounts of beadless saltwater cultured pearls - also called Keshi cultured pearls - it is crucial that laboratories collaborate internationally in pearl research, so as to maintain the confidence of the consumer in this true product of nature.”
He added: "It is the purpose of this MoU to establish mutual co-operation in research and training on pearls and to harmonize the testing of pearls, especially concerning the development of criteria for distinguishing natural pearls from cultured pearls. We are confident that this collaboration is in the interest of the international natural pearl trade and both parties are looking forward to a successful partnership."
