The Nuclear Regulatory Commission notified the Jewelers Vigilance Committee and American Gem Trade Association that they will take no action against licensees, importers and distributors or others who imported or sold irradiated gemstones in the United States from 2001-2007.

There were no licensed entities operating in the U.S during this period.  Since November 2007, three entities in the U.S. have been granted appropriate NRC licenses. 

Initial importers and distributors bringing gemstones subject to electronic irradiation into the US require an NRC license. Gemstones covered by these rules include irradiated diamonds, tourmaline and other forms of blue topaz, beryl and kunzite that have been exposed to irradiation.

JVC and AGTA developed a guide on the requirements of importing and selling irradiated gemstones in the U.S.  “The Essential Guide to the Trade in Irradiated Gemstones” can be downloaded from JVC’s and AGTA’s websites.
 

JCK