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MUMBAI, India--The Gemological Science International (GSI) and Dr. Homi Bhabha State University, Mumbai, signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to collaborate on education, research and technological advancements. GSI says the agreement “marks a strategic step forward in bridging academia and industry to promote innovative learning and research, specifically in gemology and chemistry.”

The agreement offers students hands-on experience through internship programs, while introducing advanced analytical techniques into the university’s curriculum, highlighting the importance of skill-building, employment and lifelong learning.

As part of the agreement, GSI welcomed two students specializing in Organic Chemistry from Dr. Homi Bhabha State University to participate in a two-month internship. The students will work on a project titled "Understanding the Geographical Origin of Ruby, Sapphire, and Emeralds Using Spectroscopy," which leverages advanced gemological techniques to enhance gemstone identification and analysis.

This collaboration is designed to create new pathways for students from Organic Chemistry backgrounds to apply their scientific knowledge in the field of gemology. Organic Chemistry, the study of carbon-based compounds, has wide-ranging applications in industries such as pharmaceuticals and biotechnology. Through this internship, the students will explore how their expertise in chemical structures, reactions, and spectroscopy can be used to identify and analyze gemstones, thus merging two seemingly distinct fields of study.

"At GSI, we believe in pushing the boundaries of learning and innovation. Our collaboration with Dr. Homi Bhabha State University is a perfect example of how interdisciplinary knowledge; chemistry and gemology in this case, can converge to create groundbreaking research and career opportunities for students," said Ramit Kapur, Managing Director of GSI.

The students are trained in advanced spectroscopy techniques, including FTIR (Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy), UV-Vis (Ultraviolet-Visible Spectroscopy), and ED-XRF (Energy Dispersive X-ray Fluorescence). These methods allow them to analyze gemstone treatments, determine diamond types and trace the geographical origins of precious stones. This project not only gives students practical experience but also sheds light on the wide-ranging applications of chemistry in gemological research.

“Our collaboration with GSI gives our students an exceptional opportunity to widen their perspectives. We are developing adaptable individuals who can think critically and apply their knowledge in novel ways by fusing chemistry with gemological research,” said Dr. Vishal Banewar, the director of Dr. Homi Bhabha State University's Research & Incubation Center. “This will position them for a variety of jobs in both research and industry."

This internship program is also part of GSI’s broader Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, supporting curriculum development, creating job opportunities, and addressing the goal of employability.