Method for marking gemstones with a unique micro discrete indicia

Abstract

A method for providing and reading micro-discrete indicia on a gemstone using near-field optics.

What is claimed is:  
     
         1 . A method for reading a micro-discrete indicia on a gemstone, comprising the steps of: 
 locating said micro-discrete indicia on said gemstone; and    reading said micro-discrete indicia using near-field optics.    
     
     
         2 . A method according to  claim 1  wherein said micro-discrete indicia is located initially located using an eye-loop and/or a microscope.  
     
     
         3 . A method according to  claim 2  wherein said micro-discrete indicia is located by using predetermined coordinates associated with the characteristics of said gemstone.  
     
     
         4 . A method according to  claim 3  where a document is provided that designates the appropriate coordinates of the micro-discrete indicia of said gemstone.  
     
     
         5 . A method according to  claim 4  wherein said characteristics of said gemstone is selected from one of the following: 
 size, type of gemstone, facet, manufacturer, retailer, and/or owner.  
 
     
     
         6 . A method according to  claim 1  wherein said micro-discrete indicia is used for authenticating an occasion of said gemstone.  
     
     
         7 . A method according to  claim 6  wherein said authentication identifies the manufacturer, owner, retailer, quality, and/or type of gemstone.  
     
     
         8 . A method according to  claim 1  wherein said locating of said indicia on said gemstone is provided by scanning said gemstone.