EA043806B1 - SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR ANALYZING THE AUTHENTICITY OF JEWELRY - Google Patents

Description

Field of technology

The present invention relates to the aspect of jewelry safety and, in particular, to the analysis of jewelry safety through image comparison.

State of the art

Expensive items like jewelry and diamonds can be stolen or counterfeited. These products can be protected from theft by security measures, but preventing fraud is difficult because the quality and value of such products can only be determined by qualified professionals. Even a slight difference in the quality of precious metals or diamonds can lead to a large difference in their value. For example, many gemstones may appear similar in cut, color, shape, and size. Therefore, when a piece of jewelry containing a gemstone is sent to a jeweler for repair or appraisal, there is a possibility that it will be replaced with a less valuable gemstone of the same appearance without the customer's knowledge.

Various measures have been developed to determine the purity and authenticity of these precious materials and assess their true value. In addition to the usual manual analysis, the jewelry specialist developed software algorithms to automate this task to one degree or another. The software uses imaging technology to photograph jewelry at different time periods and compare the photos through intelligent algorithms to detect any changes. The software analyzes jewelry by tracking the size of the stones, flat edges, angles, inclusions in the gemstones, etc. Laser inscriptions and identification marks that are invisible to the naked eye are also used to determine authenticity. In addition, RFID tags are also embedded and hidden inside jewelry for this purpose. Software algorithms use these parameters to determine the authenticity and genuineness of these products made from precious materials.

US patent application US 20140312017 A1 describes a system and method for identifying the authenticity of gemstones (cut diamonds and rough diamonds) by laser marking the surface of the product. The surface of the product is irradiated with laser radiation of various wavelengths and interference images are stored. To determine the authenticity of an identification mark, the stored data is compared with interference images intended to verify authenticity.

WIPO patent application WO 2015023230 A1 describes a method and system for certifying and verifying gemstones by obtaining an image of an inclusion in the gemstone. The image is displayed on a certification document, which can be compared to the gemstone viewed through an optical device to determine whether the gemstone matches the image. The certification document may also contain additional physical identification data such as inclusion location using x, y, z axes, appearance, shape, size, weight, measurements, color, refractive index, specific gravity and absorption spectrum of the gemstone.

US Pat. No. 9,373,011 describes a system and method for identifying and authenticating precious metals and small jewelry using radio frequency identification (RFID) technology. The RFID tag can be embedded in an absorbent dielectric medium within an epoxy compound in a tiny cavity placed in the metal or jewelry. The RFID tag information can be transferred to a computer via a reader and can be compared with pre-programmed information in a database.

Every piece of jewelry containing a gemstone has a set of gemstone holders, commonly called prongs, that hold the gemstone in place. Prongs are essentially small metal rods that are part of a piece of jewelry that are curved to cover the gemstone and hold it in place. Many buyers prefer prong settings primarily because they provide good security while allowing light to penetrate the diamond to make it sparkle better. In addition, depending on the person's choice, the prongs can also be easily adjusted to higher (to make the diamond appear larger) or lower positions (to prevent them from snagging easily on objects). In addition to prongs, jewelry can have settings with various types of gemstone holders, such as blind settings, rail settings, etc.

The prong setting for holding a gemstone is an important aspect to determine any changes a jeweler has made to a piece of jewelry or gemstone during a repair or appraisal. Modern technology does not allow the use of prong setting for this purpose.

Disclosure of the invention

The present invention describes a new methodology for inspecting jewelry containing a gemstone by comparing images of gemstone holder settings obtained over different periods of time. Change in metal part or gemstones is checked

- 1 043806 based on changes in the setting of gemstone holders. Ultimately, the change in value of a piece of jewelry is determined based on the change in the metal part or gemstones.

In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, a method for inspecting jewelry is described. The method includes obtaining a first set of images of a jewelry item at a first time period, the first set of images comprising an image of one or more gemstone holders that hold gemstones on the jewelry item. The method also includes obtaining a second set of images of the jewelry item at a second time period, the second set of images comprising an image of said gemstone holders. The method also includes comparing the first and second sets of images to check for changes in the setting of the gem holders.

In accordance with an alternative aspect of the present invention, a method for checking changes in the value of jewelry is described. The method includes obtaining a first set of images of a jewelry item at a first time period, the first set of images comprising an image of one or more gemstone holders that hold gemstones on the jewelry item. The method also includes obtaining a second set of images of the jewelry item at a second time period, the second set of images comprising an image of said gemstone holders. The resulting images are stored in a database. The method also includes comparing the first and second sets of images to check for a change in the setting of the gem holders and checking for a change in the metal portion or gems of the jewelry based on the change in the setting of the gem holders. The method also includes checking for changes in the value of the jewelry based on changes in the metal portion or gemstones.

In accordance with yet another aspect of the present invention, a system for inspecting jewelry is described. The system includes an image capturing device for acquiring a first set of images and a second set of images of the jewelry item in a first time period and a second time period, respectively, wherein the first set of images and the second set of images comprise an image of one or more gemstone holders that hold gemstones on the jewelry item. product. The system also includes a database for storing the first and second sets of images. The system also includes a processing unit for comparing the first and second sets of images to check for changes in the setting of the gem holders. The system also includes an output display for displaying the first and second sets of images and image comparison results.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, there is described a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium on which a computer program for inspecting jewelry is stored, wherein the computer program has a plurality of sections of code. The sections of code are configured to be executed by a computer to cause the computer to perform the steps of obtaining a first set of images of the jewelry item at a first time period, the first set of images comprising an image of one or more gemstone holders that hold the gemstones on the jewelry item. The code sections also perform the steps of receiving a second set of images of the jewelry item at a second time period, the second set of images containing an image of said gemstone holders. Sections of the code also compare the first and second sets of images to check for changes in the setting of the gem holders.

Brief description of drawings

In fig. 1 is a block diagram of a system implementing the teachings of the present invention;

in fig. 2 is a flowchart showing steps of an example jewelry inspection method;

in fig. 3 is a flowchart showing the steps of interactive jewelry evaluation;

in fig. 4 shows an image of a piece of jewelry containing a gemstone;

in fig. Figure 5 shows an example of a diamond report from the Gemological Institute of America;

in fig. 6 shows a line diagram of a piece of jewelry;

in fig. 7a shows a line diagram of a jewelry item at time period T1;

in fig. 7b shows a line diagram of a jewelry item at time period T2;

in fig. 7c shows superimposed images of FIG. 7a and 7b;

in fig. 8a shows a line diagram of a piece of jewelry with a gemstone removed from the prongs at time T1;

in fig. 8b shows a line diagram of the jewelry piece at time T2 after the gemstone is installed between the prongs;

in fig. 9a and 9b show line diagrams of jewelry with different prong sizes at time periods T1 and T2, respectively;

in fig. 10 shows an image of a ring, a gemstone and a standard size coin;

in fig. 11a is a top view of the jewelry piece with the gemstone initially set;

- 2 043806 in Fig. 11b shows a top view of a piece of jewelry with the same gemstone reinserted into the piece of jewelry; and in fig. 12a, 12b, 12c, 12d, 12e, 12f, 12g and 12h show an example of an online trading platform mobile application for buying and selling jewelry.

Although the subject matter of the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, its features are shown by way of example in the drawings and will be described in detail. However, it should be understood that this is not intended to limit aspects of the invention to the specific embodiments described. The intent is to cover all modifications, equivalents and alternatives within the spirit and scope of the invention.

Detailed description

The following detailed description refers to the figures. Examples of implementation are described to illustrate the subject of the invention, and not to limit its scope, which is defined by the claims. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the various elements described and/or shown may be arranged in various combinations and configurations within the scope of the invention.

The term "about" as applied to all numbers or values herein is intended to be subject to change. Describing numeric ranges using endpoints includes all numbers included in that range (for example, 1 to 5 includes 1, 1.5, 2, 2.75, 3, 3.80, 4, and 5).

As used in this specification and the accompanying claims, the singular number is to be construed as including or otherwise covering one or more defined entities, unless the context clearly requires otherwise. In other words, these forms apply to one or more defined objects. As used in this specification and the accompanying claims, the term or is generally used to include or otherwise cover and/or unless the context clearly requires otherwise.

In fig. 1 is a block diagram of a system 100 implementing the teachings of the present invention. System 100 includes an image capture device 102 for capturing multiple images of a jewelry item. The image capturing device 102 obtains images from various angles of a jewelry item containing gemstones, metal parts, and prongs. These images capture the physical characteristics of the jewelry, including appearance, shape, size, measurements (length, width and depth) and color. The resulting images can be in the form of static images, video images or a laser topographic model of the jewelry. Examples of an image capturing device include an analog or digital still image camera, a video camera, an optical camera, a laser camera, a laser or 3D scanner, or any other device capable of capturing high-resolution images of jewelry. The image capturing device 102 may also be a built-in high definition camera of a communication device such as a computer, laptop or mobile phone.

In one example implementation, an image capture device may acquire multiple images of a piece of jewelry and stitch the images together to provide a 360° view. In an alternative embodiment, a 360° view can be obtained using the panoramic view technology of the image capture device 102. In yet another alternative embodiment, a video image of the jewelry is obtained and still images are extracted from the video image frames. In fig. 4 shows an image of a jewelry piece 400 containing a gemstone 402. An image capture device 102 obtains 3D images of the metal portion 406, the gemstone 402, and the prongs 404.

The image capture device 102 also obtains images of inclusions in the gemstone of the jewelry item. Examples of inclusions that may be trapped include one or more of solid, liquid or gaseous inclusions, internal cracks, fractures, crystal growth zones, stress cracks, bubbles, cleavage damage, hairline cracks, halo inclusions, two-phase and three-phase inclusions, etc. The image capture device 102 also captures identifying markings or inscriptions on the surface of a metal piece or gemstone of the jewelry. The images also record any nicks, scratches, dents, locations, table edges, undersides of the gemstone, color changes under lighting conditions, girdle edges and thickness.

Images obtained by the image capturing device 102 are stored in the storage unit 104. The storage module 104 also stores a timestamp containing the date and time of the location where the images were captured and stored. The storage module 104 may be a built-in storage device of the image capturing device 102, such as an internal memory of a shooting device. In an alternative embodiment, the storage module 104 may be a storage device of one or more of a server computer, a client user computer, a personal computer (PC), a tablet PC, a laptop computer, a desktop computer.

- 3 043806 computer, mobile phone, control system and network router, switch or bridge. In an alternative implementation, the storage module 104 may be a virtual cloud storage environment.

The stored images are provided to a processing device 106 to extract information from the images and process it for the purpose of analyzing the safety of the jewelry. A user (as used herein, user refers to the owner of the jewelry, manufacturer, technician, etc., and will be referred to in the description below) may provide additional information about the jewelry to the processing device 106 through the input system 108. Additional information may relate to the physical characteristics of the metal piece and gemstone, such as weight, volume, dimensions, carat, cut grade, color grade, etc. The user can also enter information related to price, labor, etc. jewelry. It is also possible to manually enter or upload through the entry system 108 a certificate or lab report for the jewelry item. In fig. Figure 5 shows an example of a diamond report from the Gemological Institute of America. The report shows the physical characteristics of the diamond along with the image. Examples of the input system 108 include a keyboard, a touchpad, an electronic or optical mouse, a gesture recognition system, and a voice input system. The input system 108 provides additional information through a software user interface, website, or mobile application.

The processing device 106 extracts information from images of the jewelry acquired over different periods of time using a software program and compares the information to detect any changes in the metal portion or gemstones of the jewelry. Processing device 106 may be the internal CPU of image capturing device 102, such as a digital camera. In an alternative embodiment of the present invention, the processing device 106 may be a processing device of one or more of a server computer, a client user computer, a personal computer (PC), a tablet PC, a laptop computer, a desktop computer, a mobile phone, a control system, and a network router, switch or a bridge. The processed information from the processing device 106 is stored in the storage module 104 or external storage 112.

The information processed by the processing device 106 is sent to an output system 110, which displays the information to the user. The output system 110 may display information related to the physical characteristics of the jewelry, including appearance, shape, size, volume, weight, measurements (length, width, and depth), and color. Information may be displayed to the user regarding inclusions in gemstones, writing on the metal part and gemstones, nicks, scratches, dents, locations, angles of jewelry and prongs, quality of the stone, table edges, gemstone bottoms, girdle edges and thickness, scales, and/or all information known and derived from the jewelry. All of the above information is extracted from images of the jewelry taken at different time periods for comparison and reference. The system 110 also displays a time stamp related to the acquisition and storage of images. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the output system 110 also shows the differences in the prong setting of the jewelry piece that holds the gemstones before it is sent for repair and after it is received from repair. The processing device 106 calculates the difference in the metal portion and the gemstone based on changes in the prong setting of the jewelry. The difference in the metal part and the gemstone is also displayed to the user as the actual value or percentage difference. The output system 110 may also display a warning or flag if the difference calculated by the processing device 106 is greater than a predetermined threshold limit. The output system 110 may also display information in the form of a certificate including physical characteristics and images of the jewelry. The output system 110 may also display the value of the jewelry calculated from images over different time periods. The difference in cost is also displayed to the user.

External storage 112, which may be a storage device of a remote computer, laptop, mobile phone, network router, switch, bridge, or virtual space in a cloud environment, is connected to the online trading platform 114. The online trading platform 114 allows a user to display a jewelry item, price it by comparing it to other similar jewelry from other websites, and sell the jewelry item. The online trading platform 114 displays the physical characteristics and selling price of the jewelry. The user may also select and purchase or sell jewelry from the online trading platform 114 using an appropriate payment method.

In fig. Figure 2 is a flow chart showing the steps involved in inspecting a piece of jewelry. The method begins at step 202, and at step 204, a piece of jewelry is taken containing gemstones held by holders (prongs). At step 206, the image capturing device 102 acquires a first set of images of the jewelry at time period T1. In one example implementation of the present

- 4 043806 invention time period T1 is considered the time before sending the jewelry to the jeweler for repair. Time T1 may also be an arbitrary time during which images of the jewelry are acquired and stored for future comparison. Images can also be captured by the user at regular intervals to track wear and tear of the jewelry over time. The first set of images contains images of the metal part, gemstones and prongs of the jewelry. If precious stones are missing or have fallen out of the jewelry, images of empty prongs are also obtained. If the user provides gemstones separately to the jeweler for insertion into a jewelry item, images of the gemstones are also obtained for comparison with the jewelry upon return from the jeweler. Images are obtained at high resolution to allow enlargement for easy viewing and comparison. The resulting images are stored in the storage unit 104.

At step 208, the first set of images are stitched together to provide a complete view of the jewelry. The images may be stitched by the image capturing device 102. In an alternative embodiment, the images may be stitched by the processing device 106. The stitched images are also stored in the storage module 104. At step 210, a software algorithm running on processing device 106 extracts information from the first set of images and separates the metal portion, gemstones, and prongs of the jewelry using a detection methodology. At step 212, the algorithm creates a dot or line diagram of the complete jewelry, including prongs and face structure, and separates the various parts. Contour recognition methodology is well known in the art and, for the sake of brevity, will not be discussed in detail herein. However, one skilled in the art will appreciate that any other known technology can be used to separate the various parts of the jewelry. At step 214, the algorithm extracts one or more of the following types of information from the first set of images.

Dimensions, volume, angle, color and weight of the metal part.

Quality/carat of metal.

Chips, scratches, dents, cracks on metal parts or precious stones.

Inclusions in precious stones.

Identification markings or inscriptions on metal parts and precious stones.

The structure of the edges of the platform and the structure of the girdle of precious stones.

Angle and height of gems.

Depth and angle of the pavilion.

Crown height and angle.

Weight and color of precious stones.

Covering the surface area of the gemstone, i.e. whether it is too short (near the edge), or too high (towards the landing), or the right distance.

Distance between valves.

How the prongs are located relative to each other and relative to the precious stones.

Height and thickness of prongs.

The structure of the faces and the angles of the prongs.

The angle of curvature of the prong and its angle (facing the others) relative to other prongs.

How high the gemstone is set compared to the prongs and relative to other gemstones.

The size and quality of any gemstone dropped or to be replaced.

The location of the gems relative to the prongs.

Do the gems overlap or are they too close to each other?

Do the prongs touch the gemstone or do they not secure it?

Check the size and shape of prongs in and around it and other areas. Are they the same or for gemstones of similar sizes and types?

Are they the same type? How many types? How many of each type?

The above information is provided by way of example and is not intended to limit the scope of the invention. It should be clearly understood that the algorithm can extract from the first set of images any other information necessary to verify the jewelry.

In fig. 4 is a front view of jewelry 400. The algorithm calculates sizes of various parts based on an image of jewelry 400. Example sizes include girdle and gemstone facets and placement (408), prong angle when set, and color recognition and/or tip and side contours and prong height (410), prong thickness and setback angle when viewed from the side (412), 3D and dot markings to check for changes (414), and ring face recognition using prongs, facet placement, inclusions and etc. as markers (416).

In fig. 6 shows a line diagram of jewelry 600 generated by processing device 106 from the first set of images. Some examples of sizes calculated from whether

- 5 043806 linear diagram, includes diameter (602) of the girdle, diameter (604) of the platform, depth (606) of the pavilion, height (608) of the crown, angle (610) of the pavilion and angle (612) of the crown of the precious stone, angle (614) of the prong and width (616) of the prong.

At step 216, images, charts and selected information are stored in the storage module 104. At step 218, a second set of images is acquired by the image pickup device 102 at time period T2. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the time period T2 represents the time the jewelry item is returned from the jeweler after repair. Time T2 may also be any arbitrary time during which images of the jewelry are acquired and stored for comparison, for example, to inspect the jewelry for wear and tear. At step 220, the second set of images undergoes steps similar to those for the first set of images to separate the metal portion, gemstones, and prongs and extract information. The second set of images, charts and selected information are also stored in the storage module 104.

In an alternative embodiment of the present invention, different sets of images of the jewelry may be acquired at regular intervals to inspect the metal portion and gemstones for wear and tear. These sets of images can act as a map of a piece of jewelry's DNA to reveal changes that have occurred over time. The image data, along with the access key, is passed on to the next owner/processor of the jewelry. Product updates or product checks (rechecks) for any changes made between first photographing and receipt of physical delivery may be completed prior to acceptance of the product using new photographs and running an authentication application. If the old photo and the new photo match and the acceptance is finalized, the access key can be updated to reflect the new owner. These images can be provided to the insurance company, police, pawn shops, potential buyers, etc. They can also obtain an access key from the user of the jewelry to be able to verify authenticity, chain of ownership, and the exact breakdown of the components of the item. Checking the matching prongs and gemstone can allow buyers to pay or price the metal piece and gemstones more closely and more accurately. It can also allow police and insurance companies to search the database if lost or stolen jewelry is found. It also allows pawn shops or lenders to gain greater insight into ownership to reduce their risk when accepting an item from a pawn shop. If a manufacturer creates multiple pieces of the same piece of jewelry, verification will allow him to accurately trace all individual pieces.

At step 222, the first set and second sets of images and a line chart created from the images are superimposed to check for changes in the images between time periods T1 and T2. FIG. 7a and 7b show line diagrams of jewelry created from the first and second sets of images, respectively. In fig. 7c shows superimposed images of FIG. 7a and 7b, to check for changes in the prong settings of the jewelry at step 224. For example, changes in the distance between prongs, the height or width of prongs, the position of prongs relative to gemstones, the angle of curvature of prongs and the angles of prongs relative to other prongs, the ratio of the height between prongs and the size nests, etc. It should be clearly understood that the above parameters are given as an example and the algorithm may take into account various other parameters required to test changes in prong settings. The algorithm calculates these changes on a pixel-by-pixel basis from the overlay image and displays all changes in the output system 110. At step 226, the algorithm checks whether these changes are within a specified threshold limit, and at step 228 generates an alert or flag if any of the changes exceed the threshold limit. At step 230, based on the changes in the prongs, the algorithm calculates changes in the metal portion and gemstones of the jewelry. For example, changes in the dimensions of the gemstone (crown height, pavilion depth, platform diameter, pavilion angle, crown angle, etc.), size and volume of the metal part, etc. This allows the user to know what changes were made to the jewelry during the repair and whether these changes are within acceptable limits. In one example implementation, if a piece of jewelry requires a replacement gemstone, the user can, based on the output information, check whether the replaced gemstone matches the value and size of the previous gemstone. If the size differs by more than the algorithmic value, a question may arise for the jeweler who replaced the gemstone. If the algorithm includes the ability to automatically estimate the value of the jewelry, it estimates the value of the jewelry for time period T2 and at step 232 displays it to the user in the output system 110. This allows the user to compare the value of the jewelry at time T2 with the known value at time T1. At step 234, the method ends.

In fig. 8a shows a line diagram of a piece of jewelry with the gemstone removed from the prongs at time T1. Software algorithm running on the processor

- 6 043806 swarm 106, calculates the distance between the prongs 802, the width of the prong 804 and the angle of curvature 806 of the prong. The algorithm can also estimate the size and weight of the gemstone that might be best placed between the prongs. The calculated values are stored in the storage unit 104. In one example implementation, images of the jewelry, line chart 800, and calculated values are sent to a jeweler to see if he has a gemstone of the required size and weight. If the required gemstone is available, the jeweler sends an image of that gemstone to the user interface. The piece of jewelry is then sent to a jeweler to set the gemstone between the prongs. The piece of jewelry is received from the jeweler with the gemstone inserted and images of it are again obtained. In fig. 8b shows a line diagram of the jewelry piece at time T2 after the gemstone is set between the prongs. The software algorithm calculates the distance between the prongs 812, the width of the prong 814, and the angle of curvature 816 of the prong. The calculated values are stored in the storage unit 104. The algorithm calculates the difference between the corresponding stored change-check values and displays it on the output system 110 . If the difference is greater than the specified values (taking into account wear and tear during gem setting), a warning or flag is generated. In such a situation, the user may ask the jeweler to check the inserted gemstone and the loss of the metal part.

In fig. 9a and 9b show line graphs of jewelry 900 at time periods T1 and T2, respectively. At time T2, when the jewelry was received from the jeweler after repair, the prong size 904 was changed. A software algorithm calculates the difference between prong sizes 902 and 904 and generates an alert accordingly.

In an alternative embodiment, the user has a gemstone for insertion into a piece of jewelry. The user clicks on an image of the jewelry and gemstone along with a standard sized item (such as a coin). This allows the user to know the actual size of the jewelry and gemstone regardless of the zoom level of the image by comparing it to the standard coin size. In fig. 10 shows an image of a ring 1002, a gemstone 1004, and a standard size coin 1006. The actual size of ring 1002 and gem 1004 can be readily determined by comparison with coin 1006. A software algorithm running on processing unit 106 also extracts information about inclusions in gem 1004 and identification markings on ring 1002 and gem 1004 (if any). . The algorithm compares information to check for changes in ring 1002 and gem 1004 between time periods T1 and T2.

In yet another embodiment, the present invention provides security when purchasing jewelry through an e-commerce platform. The e-commerce platform can provide the buyer with 360-degree images of the jewelry, including the gemstones, metal part, and prongs. The buyer may store images in the storage module 104 and process them using a software algorithm running on the processing device 106. The algorithm extracts all information from the images and stores in the storage module 104. Once the jewelry is actually received by the buyer, the images are again captured and the information is extracted using an algorithm. The extracted information is compared with the stored information to check if the same piece of jewelry is received. This helps in detecting any fraud by the e-commerce platform company or during the transportation of the jewelry.

In fig. 11a shows a top view of the jewelry piece with the gemstone originally set. In fig. 11b shows a top view of a piece of jewelry with the same gemstone reinserted into the piece of jewelry. In fig. 11a and 11b show different sizes of gemstone and prongs. The prong tips were also modified before and after the diamond was reinstalled, as shown in FIG. 11a and 11b. It should be noted that the figures are for illustration purposes only and are not to scale.

Diamond size (which is obtained from the diamond laboratory report): 6.36-6.39x4.13 mm.

Diamond size ratio: 6.36/6.39=0.995305.

Ratio of lines passing through the diagonal of the gemstone:

E'/E=12.70/10.00=1.27;

F'/F=12.80/10.10=1.267.

Calculating the percentage difference between the calculated values and the diamond size: 12.80x0.99530 =12.734.

Percentage (%) error: (12.80-12.734)/12.80x100=0.549<1%.

Therefore, the deviation in prong setting will be acceptable if the difference between the corresponding values shown in FIG. 11a and 11b, will be less than 1%.

Obtaining the distance between the prongs in Fig. 11a.

1. A: 5.55x(1.27, 1.267)=Average (7.0485, 7.03185)±1%=6.969.

- 7 043806

2. B: 6.50x(1.27, 1.267)=Average value (8.255, 8.2355)±1%=8.327.

3. C: 6.00x(1.27, 1.267)=Average (7.62, 7.602)±1%=7.687.

4. D: 6.50x(1.27,1.267)=Average value (8.255, 8.2355)±1%=8.327.

Comparison of the calculated values from Equations 1, 2, 3, 4 above with the prong spacing in FIG. 11b.

1. A': (6.80-6.969)/6.80x 100=2.49% (unacceptable value greater than 1%).

2. B': (8.30-8.327)/8.30x 100=0.333% (acceptable value less than 1%).

3. C': (7.20-7.687)/7.20x 100=6.765% (unacceptable value greater than 1%).

4. D': (8.40-8.327)/8.40x 100=-0.860% (acceptable value less than 1%).

Typically, to remove a gemstone from a piece of jewelry, you need to bend back 2 prongs. From the percentage change in the distance between the prongs after re-fastening, we can conclude which prongs were opened during the repair. For calculated values whose deviation in the above equations is greater than 1%, a software algorithm running on processing device 106 will generate a warning or flag that will be displayed on output system 110.

In fig. Figure 3 is a flowchart showing the steps involved in interactive jewelry evaluation. The method begins at step 302 and at step 304 the jewelry item is taken. At step 306, a set of images of the jewelry is obtained using an image capture device. The images are obtained along with a standard sized item, such as a standard sized coin. This allows you to calculate the exact size of the jewelry and the angle of the resulting image, regardless of the viewing scale of the image. The set of images provides a complete overview of the jewelry. At step 308, the resulting images are uploaded to an automated jewelry grading system. An automated jewelry grading system may be a software application running on a server computer, a client user computer, a mobile phone, a control system, and a network router, switch, or bridge. In an alternative embodiment, the software application may run on a virtual computing system in a cloud environment. At step 310, the user may manually enter data into the automated jewelry grading system. For example, the user can enter the physical characteristics of the metal piece and gemstones, such as weight, volume, dimensions, carat, cut grade, color category, etc. The user may also download jewelry certification and laboratory reports obtained from jewelry certification organizations such as the Gemological Institute of America, the International Gemological Institute, the European Gemological Laboratory, and the like at step 312. At step 314, the software application automatically recognizes the metal part and gemstones in the jewelry. The software application may use, for example, edge recognition technology or any other technology to create a scatter plot or line diagram of a jewelry item. At step 316, the software application extracts additional information from the images, such as size, weight, carat, color intensity, clarity, cut proportions, polish, etc. Automated Jewelry Grading System accesses various online jewelry databases or websites such as zeales, Kitco, etc. to find jewelry and gemstones with similar parameters such as color intensity, prong styles , type of metal, performance styles, etc. At step 318, the data and value of these similar jewelry items are received and compared with the user's jewelry item. Thereafter, at step 320, the software application estimates the value of the jewelry based on all of the extracted information. At step 322, the gemstone or images and the price of the jewelry are sent to the online trading platform for display and sale of the jewelry. At block 324, the method ends.

In fig. 12a, 12b, 12c, 12d, 12e, 12f, 12g and 12h show an example of an online trading platform mobile application for buying and selling jewelry. A buyer or seller of jewelry can create a profile on the mobile application and can log in using credentials as shown in FIG. 12a. The platform provides various functionalities to the seller or buyer such as marketplace to buy gems and jewelry available from other sellers, sell your item to sell your own gems and jewelry, scan to upload images and laboratory certificates of gems and jewelry products, etc., as shown in FIG. 12b. In fig. 12c shows the marketplace of an online trading platform where a buyer or seller can view details and prices of diamonds and jewelry listed on the platform by other sellers. In fig. 12d shows the functionality of selling diamonds and jewelry by clicking and uploading their images. In fig. 12e shows a user interface for entering product information for listing the product on the selling platform. In fig. Figure 12f shows the manufacturer's corner for scanning and uploading certificates and manufacturer evaluation reports for the product. In fig. 12g shows the functionality of purchasing a product on an online trading platform. When selecting an existing product, the buyer can see all the information about it and can

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Claims (29)

drink it. The buyer or seller can also scan or enter the jewelry or gemstone product code to find product details, such as price comparisons and user reviews of similar products available online on the platform, as shown in FIG. 12h. CLAIM 1. A method of inspecting a piece of jewelry, comprising obtaining a first set of images of the piece of jewelry at a first time period using an image capturing device, the first set of images comprising an image of one or more gem holders, wherein the one or more gem holders are capable of holding one or more gemstones on a piece of jewelry, the first set of images comprising one or more of a static image, a video image, and a laser topographic model of the jewelry; obtaining a second set of images of the jewelry at a second time period using an image capturing device, the second set of images comprising an image of said one or more gemstone holders, the second set of images comprising one or more of a static image, a video image, and a laser topographic model of the jewelry ; processing, by a computing device configured by executing a software program, first and second sets of images, respectively, to extract physical characteristics of the one or more gem holders, the physical characteristics including the setting of the one or more gem holders; comparing, by a computing device, at least the setting of one or more gemstone holders depicted in the first set of images and the second set of images to calculate a change in the setting of the one or more gemstone holders, wherein the change is calculated by calculating the difference between the first setting of the one or more gemstones gem holders selected from the first set of images, and a second setting of said one or more gem holders selected from the second set of images; and displaying, by the computing device, results of comparing the first set of images and the second set of images. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein comparing the first set of images and the second set of images further includes checking for a change in size or position of the one or more gemstones based on a change in the setting of the one or more gemstone holders. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein obtaining the first set of images and the second set of images of the jewelry further includes obtaining an image of one or more of the inclusion, girdle, and cut of the one or more gemstones. 4. The method of claim 1, wherein obtaining the first set of images and the second set of images of the jewelry further includes obtaining an image of an inscription on one or more of the metal portion and one or more gemstones of the jewelry. 5. The method of claim 1, further comprising generating an alert if a change is confirmed in the setting of one or more gem holders. 6. The method of claim 1, further comprising storing physical identification data of a metal portion of one or more gemstones of the jewelry in a database or website. 7. The method of claim 1, further comprising storing in a database a timestamp and acquisition location of the first set of images and the second set of images, wherein the timestamp includes a date and time of acquisition and storage of the images. 8. The method according to claim 1, in which the selected setting contains the value of one or more parameters selected from the group consisting of the distance between the prongs, the corresponding height of the prongs, the corresponding thickness of the prongs, the corresponding position of the prongs in relation to the specified one or more precious stones, a corresponding angle of curvature of the prongs, a corresponding angle of curvature of the prong relative to the angle of curvature of the other prong, a ratio of the heights of the prongs, and a ratio of the sizes of the prong nests, the comparison step including determining whether the change in the value of said one or more parameters is within a predetermined threshold limit; and generating an alert if said change exceeds a threshold limit. 9. The method of claim 1 or 8, wherein the step of processing a given set of images among the first and second sets of images includes creating a diagram of a jewelry item from the given set of images that is one or more of a dot diagram or a line diagram, wherein corresponding physical the characteristics of the jewelry, including the setting of the gem holder and one or more gemstones, are calculated from the created dia - 9 043806 grams. 10. The method of claim 9, wherein the comparison step includes superimposing a chart created from the first set of images onto a chart created from the second set of images; and calculating the change in setting based on the overlay charts through a pixel-by-pixel comparison methodology. 11. The method of claim 1, wherein the step of processing the given set of images also includes stitching together the images in the given set to create a composite image of the jewelry. 12. The method of claim 1, wherein the step of processing the given set of images further includes separating the one or more gemstone holders and the one or more gemstones of the jewelry using an image processing methodology to determine the outline. 13. The method of claim 1, wherein the physical characteristics include the dimensions of the one or more gem holders. 14. The method of claim 9, further comprising providing a secure access key to the owner of the jewelry, wherein a diagram of the jewelry is stored in a database and associated with the access key; and when transferring the jewelry from an owner to a new owner, inspecting the jewelry based on the results of a comparison of the first set of images and the second set of images, updating the access key to reflect the new owner, and providing the updated access key to the new owner. 15. A system for inspecting a piece of jewelry, comprising an image capturing device for acquiring a first set of images and a second set of images of the jewelry piece at first and second time periods, respectively, wherein the first set of images and the second set of images comprise an image of one or more gemstone holders, wherein said one or more gemstone holders enable one or more gemstones to be held on a piece of jewelry, the first and second sets of images comprising one or more of a static image, a video image, and a laser topographic model of the jewelry piece; a database for storing a first set of images and a second set of images; a processing device for processing the first and second sets of images, respectively, to extract the physical characteristics of the one or more gem holders, the physical characteristics including the setting of the one or more gem holders and to compare at least the setting of the one or more gem holders depicted in a first set of images and a second set of images for calculating a change in the setting of one or more gem holders, wherein it is possible to calculate the change by calculating the difference between a first setting of said one or more gem holders extracted from the first set of images and a second setting of said one or more gem holders more gem holders, highlighted from the second set of images; and an output display for displaying the first set of images and the second set of images; and displaying results of comparing the first set of images and the second set of images. 16. The system of claim 15, wherein the image capturing device is configured to obtain one or more of a static image, a video image, and a laser topographic model of the jewelry. 17. The system of claim 15, wherein the database further stores one or more of an image of the inclusion, girdle, and cut of the one or more gemstones, an image of the inscription on the metal portion and the one or more gemstones, and physical identification data of the metal portion and the one or more gemstones. more precious stones. 18. The system of claim 15, wherein the database further stores a timestamp of the first set of images and the second set of images, wherein the timestamp includes a date and time the images were acquired and stored. 19. The system of claim 15, further comprising an automated jewelry valuing system, wherein the automated jewelry valuing system is configured to evaluate, through a computing device configured by executing a software application, the value of the jewelry using stored images. 20. The system of claim 15, further comprising an online trading platform, wherein the online trading platform allows the customer to perform one or more of the functions of displaying, pricing, comparing, and selling the jewelry. 21. A machine-readable storage medium containing a computer program stored thereon for inspecting a piece of jewelry, wherein the computer program is configured to - 10 043806 its execution by the processing device to cause the processing device to carry out the following operations: receiving a first set of images of the jewelry item at a first time period, wherein the first set of images includes an image of one or more gemstone holders, wherein the one or more gemstone holders enable one or more gemstones to be supported on the jewelry item, wherein the first set of images contains one or more of a static image, a video image, and a laser topographic model of the jewelry; receiving a second set of images of the jewelry at a second time period, the second set of images comprising an image of said one or more gemstone holders, the second set of images comprising one or more of a still image, a video image, and a laser topographic model of the jewelry; processing the first and second sets of images, respectively, to extract physical characteristics of the one or more gem holders, the physical characteristics including the setting of the one or more gem holders; comparing at least the setting of the one or more gem holders depicted in the first set of images and the second set of images to calculate a change in the setting of the one or more gem holders, wherein the change can be calculated by the difference between the first setting of the one or more gem holders , selected from the first set of images, and a second setting of the specified one or more holders of precious stones, selected from the second set of images; and displaying results of comparing the first set of images and the second set of images. 22. The computer-readable storage medium of claim 21, wherein the first set of images and the second set of images comprise one or more of a still image, a video image, and a laser topographic model of the jewelry. 23. The computer-readable storage medium of claim 21, wherein the comparison of the first set of images and the second set of images further comprises sections of code for checking for a change in the size or position of the one or more gems based on a change in the setting of the one or more gem holders. 24. The computer-readable storage medium of claim 21, wherein receiving the first set of images and the second set of images of the jewelry further includes sections of code for receiving an image of an inclusion in the one or more gemstones. 25. The computer-readable storage medium of claim 21, wherein receiving the first set of images and the second set of images of the jewelry further includes sections of code for receiving an image of an inscription on one or more of the metal portion and one or more gemstones of the jewelry. 26. The computer-readable storage medium of claim 21, further comprising sections of code for generating a warning if a change is confirmed in the setting of one or more gemstone holders. 27. The computer-readable storage medium of claim 21, further comprising sections of code for storing the first set of images and the second set of images. 28. The computer-readable storage medium of claim 21, further comprising sections of code for storing physical identification data of the metal portion and one or more gemstones of the jewelry. 29. The computer-readable storage medium of claim 21, further comprising sections of code for storing in a database a timestamp of the first set of images and a second set of images, the timestamp comprising a date and time the images were acquired and stored. -