WO2013006676A2

WO2013006676A2 - Methods, devices and computer program products for estimating stone-specific attributes using a mobile terminal

Info

Publication number: WO2013006676A2
Application number: PCT/US2012/045508
Authority: WO
Inventors: Ross Adriel MCDOWELL; Frank Jolly RAGSDALE
Original assignee: Adamas Vector, Llc
Priority date: 2011-07-05
Filing date: 2012-07-05
Publication date: 2013-01-10
Also published as: WO2013006676A3

Abstract

Methods include receiving a plurality of gemstone values corresponding to a cut gemstone into a graphical user interface of a mobile terminal, computing at least one angle corresponding to the cut gemstone using at least one of the plurality of gemstone values, and displaying a value of the at least one angle to a mobile device user on a display of a mobile device.

Description

METHODS, DEVICES AND COMPUTER PROGRAM PRODUCTS FOR ESTIMATING STONE-SPECIFIC ATTRIBUTES USING A MOBILE TERMINAL

RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Application Serial Number 61/504,389, filed July 5, 2011, the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference as if recited in full herein.

BACKGROUND

[0002] Cut gemstones, such as, for example, diamonds may dramatically vary in value based on many different variables. As such, significant research has been focused on developing methods and technologies to accurately identify and characterize gemstones. This research has produced significant advances in the ability to differentiate gemstones. One result of such research includes diamond grading reports that may make representations regarding diamond color, diamond clarity and/or diamond dimensions, among others. However, consumers may be ill- equipped to determine the meanings and/or veracity of such reports.

SUMMARY

[0003] The present invention is directed to methods of measuring and/or estimating light in cut gem stones. Some embodiments of such methods may include receiving multiple gemstone values corresponding to a cut gemstone into a graphical user interface of a mobile terminal, computing at least one angle corresponding to the cut gemstone using at least one of the gemstone values and displaying a value of the at least one angle to a mobile device user on a display of a mobile device.

[0004] In some embodiments, receiving the gemstone values includes receiving at least one of the gemstone values from a user via a graphical user interface on the mobile device. Some embodiments provide that receiving the gemstone values includes receiving a unique identifier that corresponds to the cut gemstone via the graphical user interface, sending a request for data corresponding to the cut gemstone that is associated with the unique identifier and receiving at least one of the gemstone values responsive to sending the request for data. [0005] In some embodiments, the gemstone values include dimension values of the cut gemstone. Some embodiments provide that the dimension values include at least one of table width, crown height and pavilion depth. Some embodiments provide that computing the at least one angle is performed by at least one processor in the mobile device. In some embodiments, the angle includes a crown angle and a pavilion angle.

[0006] Some embodiments include generating a graphical user interface in the mobile device that is operable to receive the gemstone values and to display the at least one angle.

[0007] Some embodiments of the present invention include a mobile terminal graphical user interface (GUI) that includes an input portion that is configured to receive multiple values corresponding to physical properties of a cut gemstone and an output portion that is configured to display output data corresponding to computed dimensional data of the cut gemstone. In some embodiments, the input portion includes a dimensional data entry portion that is configured to receive, from a mobile terminal user, dimensional data corresponding to the cut gemstone. Some

embodiments provide that the dimensional data includes at least one of a table width, a crown height and a pavilion depth.

[0008] In some embodiments, the input portion includes a gemstone identifier data entry portion that is configured to receive a gemstone identifier that is associated with a specific cut gemstone. Some embodiments provide that the gemstone identifier data entry portion includes a user input that, when actuated, causes an image capture component of the mobile terminal to capture an image corresponding to the gemstone identifier. In some embodiments, the gemstone identifier data entry portion includes at least one of a numeric interface or an alphanumeric interface that is configured to receive the gemstone identifier from the mobile terminal user.

[0009] Some embodiments provide that the output portion includes at least one input data display fields that is configured to display at least one data value that is received via the input portion. In some embodiments, the output portion includes a graphic display portion that is configured to display a gemstone profile image that corresponds to dimensional data of the cut gemstone. Some embodiments provide that the output portion includes a graphic display portion that is configured to display a default gemstone profile image exclusive of dimensional data of the cut gemstone. [0010] Some embodiments may include a get angle actuator that is configured to cause at least one angle corresponding to the cut gemstone to be estimated based on dimensional data corresponding to the cut gemstone that is received via the input portion. In some embodiments, the output portion includes an angle value display field that is configured to display a value of the at least one angle of the cut gemstone.

[0011] Some embodiments of the present invention include computer program products that include computer readable code that is configured to perform the operations described herein, including generating a GUI as described herein.

[0012] Some embodiments of the present invention include mobile terminals that are configured to implement a GUI as described herein. For example, such mobile terminals may include a user interface that is configured to display a mobile terminal GUI as described herein.

[0013] It is noted that aspects of the invention described with respect to one embodiment, may be incorporated in a different embodiment although not specifically described relative thereto. That is, all embodiments and/or features of any

embodiment can be combined in any way and/or combination. These and other objects and/or aspects of the present invention are explained in detail in the specification set forth below.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0014] Other features of the present invention will be more readily understood from the following detailed description of exemplary embodiments thereof when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein like references numerals represent like elements. The drawings are merely exemplary to illustrate certain features that may be used singularly or in combination with other features and the present invention should not be limited to the embodiments shown. Features shown with respect to one embodiment or figure may be used with other embodiments or figures.

[0015] FIG. 1 is a schematic side partial cut-away view of a brilliant cut gemstone 100 according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0016] FIGS. 2 A and 2B are schematic views of respective top and bottom views of the gemstone 100 of FIG. 1 and the facets thereon according to some embodiments of the present invention. [0017] FIG. 3 is display portion of calculated dispersion, reflection and leakage corresponding to the yellow, red, blue and total rays for a total of 32400 different rays that were traced through a gemstone according to some embodiments herein.

[0018] FIG. 4 is a screen shot of a GUI for operations that simulate projecting rays into the upper surfaces of a gemstone and measuring the amount of light retransmitted in a profile view according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0019] FIG. 5 is a screen shot of a GUI for operations in which a star profile may be selected, which positions the image to develop the surfaces produced by the table, star facet, upper girdle facets, girdle, lower girdle facets and part of the lower main facets.

[0020] FIG. 6 is a screen shot of a GUI in which the stone dimension screen allows the operator to change the proportions of the diagram according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0021] FIG. 7 is a screen shot illustrating additional features of the GUI according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0022] FIG. 8 is screen shot of an options setting panel in a GUI according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0023] FIGS. 9A-9J are screen shots in a GUI according to embodiments herein that illustrate various features using the Tolkowsky ideal main profile and star profile.

[0024] FIGS. 1 OA-1 OK are screenshots taken corresponding to the "single target" option selected (in the GUI of FIGS. 9A-9J), that shows snapshots of operations for scanning 180 target points from 180 transmission points.

[0025] FIG. 11 A is a screen shot that illustrates 180 rays directed into the gemstone and that follow a moving target point according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0026] FIG. 1 IB is a screen shot that illustrates that the entrance and reflected rays may be turned off showing that a complex pattern of refracted rays is reflected in the interior and then refracted to the outside according to some embodiments of the present invention. [0027] FIG. 12 is a screen shot in which the stone dimensions button on the control panel of the GUI illustrated in FIGS. 9A-9J may be selected to open the stone dimensions panel according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0028] FIG. 13 is a screen shot that illustrates a computational panel after the scan that is initiated according to the inputs discussed above regarding FIG. 12.

[0029] FIG. 14 is a screen shot that illustrates a computational panel that displays the performance values corresponding to the diamond.

[0030] FIG. 15 illustrates a screenshot of an application according to some embodiments disclosed herein.

[0031] FIG. 16 is a screen shot of an application showing that the end points of the line may be at the lowest points on the left and right of the girdle area according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0032] FIG. 17 is a screenshot a GUI analyzing one of 180 rays of a scan as described above.

[0033] FIG. 18 which is a screenshot illustrating operations corresponding to two gemstones with target points set in different locations.

[0034] FIG. 19A is a screenshot that illustrates the target positions after about 30 seconds of run time.

[0035] FIG. 19B includes a similar screenshot as FIG. 19A, but with the "Show Entry Rays" option selected in the "Display Options" panel in the GUI

[0036] FIG. 19C is a screenshot that illustrates the "Show Target" option is selected, the "Show Entry Rays" option is deselected and "Show Entry Reflections" option is selected.

[0037] FIG. 19D is a screenshot that illustrates "Show Entry Rays" is selected, "Show Internal Rays" is selected and "Show Target" is selected.

[0038] FIG. 19E is a screenshot that illustrates "Internal Rays", "Exit Rays" and "Target" are selected.

[0039] FIG. 19F is a screenshot that illustrates "Internal Rays", "Wasted Exit Rays" and "Target" are selected in the GUI.

[0040] FIG. 19G is a screenshot that illustrates all of the display options are selected except for "Entry Rays" in the GUI.

[0041] FIG. 20 is a screenshot that illustrates analyzing gemstones having two different profiles, data corresponding to the computation panel in the GUI. [0042] FIG. 21 is a screenshot that illustrates a display of multiple light ray tracing through a stone according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0043] FIG. 22 is a screenshot that illustrates a display of a manual ray tracing operation that may be performed according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0044] FIG. 23 is a screenshot that illustrates a screenshot generated according to operations for performing an analysis of a three-dimensional model of a stone according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0045] FIG. 24 is a screenshot that illustrates a three-dimensional stone model that includes multiple target points distributed on the stone surface.

[0046] FIG. 25 is a block diagram illustrating operations for tracing a single light ray according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0047] FIG. 26 is a vector diagram illustrating the relative angles of light rays as described herein.

[0048] FIG. 27 is a vector diagram illustrating the relative angles of light rays as described herein.

[0049] FIG. 28 is a graph plotting the radiation intensity as a function of the color of light in the visible spectrum according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0050] FIG. 29 is a screen shot illustrating an image corresponding to a two- dimensional profile of a data file according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0051] FIG. 30 is an image corresponding to the girdle edge in a three- dimensional model of the modified ideal design according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0052] FIG. 31 A is a screen shot illustrating a side view of a three- dimensional ideal model with a dome of projection points at one degree longitude and latitude increments according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0053] FIG. 3 IB is a screen shot illustrating a top view of a three- dimensional ideal model with target points at one degree longitude and latitude increments according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0054] FIG. 31 C is a screen shot illustrating a perspective view of a three- dimensional ideal model with target points at one degree longitude and latitude increments according to some embodiments of the present invention. [0055] FIG. 3 ID is a screen shot illustrating a side view of a three- dimensional ideal model with projection points at 45 degree longitudinal increments and 1 degree latitudinal increments and target points at 45 degree longitudinal and latitudinal increments according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0056] FIG. 3 IE is a screen shot illustrating a top view of a three- dimensional ideal model with projection points at 1 degree longitudinal increments and 10 degree latitudinal increments according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0057] FIG. 3 IF is a screen shot illustrating a perspective view of a three- dimensional ideal model with projection points at 1 degree longitudinal increments and 10 degree latitudinal increments according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0058] FIG. 31 G is a screen shot illustrating a perspective view of a three- dimensional ideal model with target and projection points each at 6 degree longitudinal and latitudinal increments according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0059] FIG. 32 is a block diagram of a data processing

system/method/computer program product such as may be embodied according to operations disclosed herein.

[0060] FIG. 33 is a schematic block diagram illustrating systems, methods, and devices for providing quantitative data to a mobile terminal user for evaluating grading reports and/or certificates according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0061] FIG. 34 is a block diagram illustrating a mobile terminal and related methods of operation according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0062] FIG. 35 is a flowchart illustrating operations corresponding to methods for estimating stone-specific attributes using a mobile terminal according to some embodiments described herein.

[0063] FIG. 36 is a schematic view of a GUI on a mobile terminal in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention.

[0064] FIG. 37 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a gemstone grading document. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0065] Disclosed herein are methods, systems and computer program products that are operable to grade the cut of diamonds and all other polished transparent and translucent materials, including but not limited to, emeralds, rubies and/or other naturally occurring and/or fabricated materials . In this regard, as used herein, the term "gemstone" may be used to describe and includes diamonds and all other polished transparent and/or translucent materials, including but not limited to, emeralds, rubies and/or other naturally occurring and/or fabricated materials.

Although discussed herein in the context of the "Brilliant" cut, also referred to as the "Modern Round Brilliant" and/or "Ideal Cut" diamond, embodiments as disclosed herein are applicable to other diamond cuts, including Point Cut, Table Cut, Old Single Cut, Mazarin Cut, Peruzzi Cut, Old European Cut, American Standard, Practical Fine Cut, Scandinavian Standard, Eulitz Brilliant, Ideal Brilliant, Parker Brilliant, AG A, heart shaped, pear shaped, marquise, triangular, and/or emerald cuts, among others.

[0066] The value of a polished diamond based on properties that may be referred to as the four C's, namely, color, clarity, carat weight and cut. The cut, which may describe the cutting proportions of a polished gemstone, may be one of the more difficult to quantify and one of the more important of the properties known as the four C's. This may be true because the cut of a gemstone has a direct impact on the flow of light through the gemstone and thus the sparkle that may be perceived by an observer. In this regard, some embodiments of systems, methods and computer program products described herein provide an objective tool for grading the cut of polished transparent and translucent materials, such as, for example, diamonds and/or other gemstones.

[0067] Reference is now made to FIG. 1 , which is a schematic side partial cut-away view of a brilliant cut gemstone 100 according to some embodiments of the present invention. The flow of light through the gemstone 100 may be determined by the accuracy in the placement of the facets (faces), the angles at which they are cut, the precision with which they join and align and proportional relationships of the different sections of the gemstone 100. The illustrated gemstone includes a crown 102, which is the top section that includes the table 104 (large facet on the top of the stone) and a pavilion 106, which is the lower section of the gemstone 100. A girdle 108 defines the area between the crown 102 and pavilion 106 and forms the edge of the gemstone 100, as illustrated. Some embodiments provide that the girdle 108 and the dimensions thereof may control the flow of light into, through and/or out of the gemstone 100. A crown angle 105 may define an angle between bottom and angular side surfaces of the crown 102. A pavilion angle 103 may define an angle between the top of the pavilion 106 and an adjacent side surface.

[0068] Brief reference is now made to FIGS. 2 A and 2B, which are schematic views of respective top and bottom views of the gemstone 100 of FIG. 1 and the facets thereon according to some embodiments of the present invention.

Referring to FIG. 2 A, the top view of the gemstone illustrates the crown 102 and the upper portions of the girdle 108. The facets that are visible from the top view include the table 104, star facets 113, crown main or kite facets 111 and the upper girdle facets 112. Referring to FIG. 2B, the bottom view illustrates the pavilion main facets 114, the lower girdle facets 115 and may include a culet 116, which is a polished portion proximate the bottom vertex of the gemstone 100.

[0069] Historically, as established by Marcel Tolkowsky, the "Modern Round Brilliant" or "Ideal Cut" diamond included the girdle diameter as the basis for establishing the percentages for each section of a diamond. According to the Ideal Cut, the table measured 53%, crown height 16.2% and pavilion depth 43.1 % of the girdle diameter. The Ideal Cut did not attribute any thickness to the girdle and did not feature a culet. The crown and pavilion angles measured 34.5 and 40.75 degrees respectively.

[0070] While in actuality, no cut gemstones may realize the ideal

dimensional criteria defined in the Ideal Cut of Tolkowsky, performance of actual gemstones may be determined relative to the Ideal Cut. In this regard, systems, methods and computer program products as disclosed herein provide quantitative data for estimating the actual performance of cut gemstones to the Ideal Cut. Using the design parameters of the Ideal Cut as a basis, objective tools for grading the cut of polished transparent and translucent materials may be provided by tracing computer created light rays directed from selected transmission points to selected target points in the interior and/or on the surfaces of the transparent and translucent materials. A gemstone is discussed herein as a non-limiting example of a transparent and/or translucent material. Some embodiments provide that the path of light may be traced, calculated, estimated and/or measured as it travels towards, strikes the surface of, is reflected from and/or refracted into and eventually out of a gemstone. In some embodiments, each light ray may be divided into multiple colors that may include a plurality of dominant wavelengths in the visible spectrum.

[0071] The visible spectrum includes light that ranges from generally blue light near one end of the spectrum to red light near the other end of the spectrum. In this regard, the operations according to some embodiments use blue and red components in each ray. Additionally, some embodiments may include yellow and/or green components in the simulated rays as well. For example, some embodiments provide that a ray may include any dominant wavelength and/or combination of dominant wavelengths of light in the visible spectrum.

[0072] According to some embodiments, each ray is divided into blue, yellow and red components. Based on an estimated contact of a simulated ray with a surface of the gemstone, the angle of incidence of each ray may be calculated.

Respective portions of each ray may be reflected and refracted into the gemstone. The amounts of the reflected and refracted portions may be determined using the angles of incidence and the refractive index of the gemstone material. As the simulated rays enter the gemstone, the amount of light that is received inside the gemstone is reduced by the amount of the received light that is reflected.

[0073] Each spectral color, which possesses its individual refractive index, is traced through the material until it is refracted out of the material. In this regard, an individual refractive index may be a function of the frequency and/or wavelength of the spectral color. An exit point corresponding to each color component is determined and the amount of light transmitted by each ray is calculated. The calculations employed in this process are found in Fresnel equations, which describe the behavior of light when moving between media of differing refractive indices and/or SnelPs law of reflection.

[0074] Some embodiments of the present invention include a Graphical User Interface (GUI) that may be used to receive inputs corresponding to the following for a specific gemstone: dimensional properties; material refractive indices; positions and quantity of origination points corresponding to simulated light rays; positions and quantity of target points within and/or on a surface of the gemstone that ones of the simulated light rays are directed to; and/or calculated results of a variety of performance data including, but not limited to, dispersion, reflection and leakage in the colors designated by the operations. As used herein, the term "leakage" may be used to describe light that exits the gemstone on any surface that is below the girdle. In some embodiments, the calculated values may be provided for each of the spectral color components and/or total values corresponding to an aggregate of the spectral color components. In some embodiments, the total number of rays traced may also be displayed. For example, brief reference is made to FIG. 3, which is display portion of calculated dispersion, reflection and leakage corresponding to the yellow, red, blue and total rays for a total of 32400 different rays that were traced through a gemstone according to some embodiments herein. The exemplary numbers in the display portion of FIG. 3 are the result of computations corresponding to a round cut diamond having randomly selected proportions.

[0075] Reference is now made to FIG. 4, which is a screen shot of a GUI for operations that simulate projecting rays into the upper surfaces of a gemstone and measuring the amount of light retransmitted in a profile view of a round full cut gemstone and that includes multiple fields for providing inputs corresponding to gemstone dimensions and a two-dimensional rendering of a gemstone according to some embodiments of the present invention. A profile of the gemstone may be generated by entering the table width, crown height, girdle width, pavilion depth and/or culet width, among others. Some embodiments provide that the values may be entered as a percentage of the girdle diameter. Instead of entering dimensional values, default stone dimensions may be selected, which provide a given set of values upon which to run the operations.

[0076] Briefly referring to FIG. 5, a star profile may be selected, which positions the image to develop the surfaces produced by the table, star facet, upper girdle facets, girdle, lower girdle facets and part of the lower main facets. Note that the gemstone in FIG. 5 is the same as that of FIG. 4, but is positioned to illustrate the star profile.

[0077] Briefly referring to FIG. 6, the stone dimension screen allows the operator to change the proportions of the diagram. For example, entering a number other than 53% in the table width field, but allowing the crown height value to remain at 16.2% automatically re-computes the crown angle in degrees. For instance, if 65 is entered into the table width field, the crown height is recalculated to the correct angle that allows the end of the table plane and the end of the girdle plane to be connected. The number 42.7908724046997 degrees appears in the crown angle field. Clicking the "Accept" button on the GUI causes the screen to re-adjust to these numbers and draws a line connecting the table and girdle. The profile of the gemstone in FIG. 6 illustrates the updated dimensions.

[0078] Brief reference is now made to FIG. 7, which is a screen shot illustrating additional features of the GUI according to some embodiments of the present invention. As illustrated, adjustments in the crown height, girdle width, pavilion depth, culet width and/or star profile values may result in an adjustment of the proportions of the diagram. For example, entering a completely different set of numbers substantially alters the shape of the diagram. If numbers producing a very flat profile are entered, the diagram is automatically altered to accommodate the new data.

[0079] As a general note, in creating diagrams, while the simulated shape may be consistently symmetrical, gemstones are never cut to this degree of precision and symmetry. However, for the purposes of simulation and explanation, profiles as used herein may be generated as symmetrical. Additionally, by virtue of the symmetrical models used herein, some embodiments provide that duplicate calculations that would result in symmetrically related results may be avoided.

[0080] Reference is now made to FIG. 8, which is screen shot of an options setting panel in a GUI according to some embodiments of the present invention. The options setting panel may be operable to receive control inputs including display options, multi-ray options, text file options, autosweep options, target point options, and/or sweep options, among others. For example display options may include options regarding whether to show entrance rays, entry reflections, internal rays, exit ray ghosting, wasted exit rays, target reticles and/or slow sweeps, among others. Text file options may include providing all computations and/or an energy summary. Additionally, where to display dispersion and/or reflectance losses may be selected.

[0081] Multiray options may include a field for inputting the number of projected rays and whether the target is moved manually or is auto-roaming. Autosweep options allow the selection of single or multiple target points, the number of projections points, the number of target points along the stone face, whether the autosweep is displayed, and an option to repeat the auto-sweep. Sweeps may be set to manual or auto and the target point may be a default target point or may be set numerically and/or graphically.

[0082] Accordingly, any combination of proportions may be analyzed with the selected options. Some embodiments provide that accepting the default stone dimensions will result in the profile of the ideal round brilliant cut diamond designed by Marcel Tolkowsky being used. Note that, although this diagram shows no thickness to the girdle, because the girdle practically has some thickness, some in the jewelry industry have used as an ideal standard, a thickness of 1.7% of the gemstones average diameter measurement at the point where the crown and pavilion main facets meet.

[0083] Reference is now made to FIGS. 9A-9J which are screen shots in a GUI according to embodiments herein that illustrate various features using the Tolkowsky ideal main profile and star profile, each having a girdle thickness of 1.7%. For example, referring to FIG. 9A, computer simulated light rays may be projected toward the diagrams from 360 different transmission points. IJN the screen shot of FIG. 9 A, only one of the rays, namely from the 0 degree/360 degree point is illustrated. These points are one degree of arc apart and are located in a circle around the diagram where the center of the circle is positioned on the target point in the stone. In this embodiment, the default target point is located at the center of the base line of the girdle area. Some embodiments provide that target points may be set any place on the edge or inside the diagram. As the transmission points change, the computations panel displays changes in dispersion, reflection and leakage for each of blue, red, yellow and the total light. As noted above, the specific wavelengths/colors described herein are by way of example and the disclosure herein is not so limited.

[0084] In FIG. 9 A, a simulated ray from the 360 degree transmission point is directed through a polished girdle aimed at a target reticle at the center of the plane that forms the bottom of the girdle area which, as stated above, is uniformly 1.7% thick. Because the Girdle is parallel to the simulated ray and the girdle is assumed to be polished, the simulated ray travel may into and through the diagram. If the "Frosted" option on the Stone Dimensions Panel had been selected, no light will penetrate the diagram. Frosted girdles are considered in this process to be opaque.

[0085] Referring to FIG. 9B, a simulated ray is generated at 18.10 degrees from the horizontal. The options are selected to show entrance, reflected, internal and wasted rays. As illustrated, the entrance ray 202 is shown entering the profile, the internal ray 204 is shown projecting through the profile and wasted rays 206 are shown exiting the profile at a point below the girdle. The target reticle is the same as shown above in FIG. 9A. Referring to FIG. 9C, a star profile is illustrated with rays transmitted from the same degree transmission points as illustrated above in FIG. 9B. [0086] Reference is now made to FIG. 9D in which the display options are selected to show entrance, reflected, internal and wasted ray results at the same target reticle as the previous examples.

[0087] Reference is now made to FIG. 9E in which the simulated ray is at 36.03 degrees from the horizontal and the display options are selected to show entrance, reflected, internal and wasted ray results at the same target reticle.

[0088] Reference is now made to FIG. 9F in which the simulated ray is at 36.03 degrees from the horizontal, the star profile is displayed, and the display options are selected to show entrance, reflected, internal and wasted ray results at the same target reticle.

[0089] Reference is now made to FIG. 9G in which the simulated ray is at 53.97 degrees from the horizontal and the display options are selected to show entrance, reflected, internal and wasted ray results at the same target reticle.

[0090] Reference is now made to FIG. 9H in which the simulated ray is at 53.97 degrees from the horizontal, the star profile is displayed, and the display options are selected to show entrance, reflected, internal and wasted ray results at the same target reticle.

[0091] Reference is now made to FIG. 91 in which the simulated ray is at 74.05 degrees from the horizontal, the star profile is displayed, and the display options are selected to show entrance, reflected, internal and wasted ray results at the same target reticle.

[0092] Reference is now made to FIG. 9J in which the simulated ray is at 90 degrees from the horizontal and the display options are selected to show entrance, reflected, internal and wasted ray results at the same target reticle. The culet was increased to 0.1% to allow the simulated ray to be transmitted straight through the stone.

[0093] In some embodiments, an auto sweep function may provide for scanning a diagram in multiple ways. The first option may include setting the target point in the default position and scanning the diagram with 180 light rays projected from transmission points 0 (360) degrees to 180 degrees. Some embodiments provide that the scan may be performed counter clockwise from 180 degrees to 0 (360) degrees. Other embodiments may provide a scan that is performed in a clockwise direction. In some embodiments, an auto sweep may include one of a clockwise or counter clockwise direction as a default direction and a manual sweep may include the other one of the clockwise or counter clockwise direction as a default direction. Each ray is aimed at the target point and is shown as it travels toward the surface, strikes the surface, is partially reflected, refracted into three colors, its internal reflection(s) and the direction in which each of the rays is refracted. Upon

completion, the computations panel of the GUI may display the total amount of dispersion, reflection and leakage of all three colors and for the total light.

[0094] Reference is now made to FIGS. 10A-10K, which are screenshots taken corresponding to the "single target" option selected (in the GUI of FIGS. 9A- 9J), that shows snapshots of operations for scanning 180 target points from 180 transmission points. In this scan, the target points are located on the surface of the diagram at and above the bottom plane of the girdle section. The target points are located on imaginary straight lines that would connect the transmission points and the center of the line that forms the bottom of the girdle section at the point where the lines would intersect the upper surface of the diagram. A simulated ray is projected from each transmission point to every target point for a total of 32,400 rays.

Selecting the "On Screen" display option shows each ray as it is projected from the transmission points to every target point. Depending on the processing speeds, this process may require several minutes to complete. If the scan is run with the

OnScreen" not selected, the scan may be completed in substantially less time.

[0095] Some embodiments provide that a multi-rays option may be used to provide a dynamic display of multiple rays projected into a gemstone and that are directed at a moving target point. For example, reference is made to FIG. 1 1 A, which illustrates 180 rays directed into the gemstone and that follow a moving target point. Some embodiments provide that the simulated rays from the origination points are displayed as a first color and that the dispersed rays may be shown in other different colors that may correspond to the calculated dominant wavelengths thereof (e.g., blue, red, yellow, green, etc.). As illustrated, the dispersed rays may be grouped and concentrated to the left crossing the projected rays. An interference pattern is seen to the right top caused by the target being located close to the table.

[0096] Referring to FIG. 1 IB, the entrance and reflected rays may be turned off showing that a complex pattern of refracted rays is reflected in the interior and then refracted to the outside. In some embodiments, rays that would be visible to the eye may be shown in color and rays lost or leaked through the pavilion, regardless of direction, may be shown in gray.

[0097] In use and operation, the systems, methods and computer program products disclosed herein may be used to provide grading information regarding gemstones, such as, for example, diamonds. By way of example, reference is made to the screenshot of FIG. 12 in which the stone dimensions button on the control panel of the GUI illustrated in FIGS. 9A-9J may be selected to open the stone dimensions panel. As illustrated, the table width of 53% is entered, the crown height of 16.2% is entered, a girdle width of 1.7% is entered and a pavilion depth of 43.1% is entered. The star profile is not selected and, upon clicking "Accept", the Tolkowsky Design with the addition of the 1.7% girdle thickness is displayed. On the control panel of the GUI illustrated in FIGS. 9A-9J, 180 is entered in the field corresponding to the number of projection points and 180 is entered in the field corresponding to the number of target points along the stone face. The auto sweeps option is selected. The scan may be run either on the screen or by clicking the "On Screen" button and removing the check mark.

[0098] Briefly referring to FIG. 13, after the scan that is initiated according to the inputs discussed above regarding FIG. 12, the computation panel according to some embodiments may display the total amount yellow, red and blue light that is dispersed, reflected, and leaked from a two dimensional profile view of the table, crown main facets, girdle and pavilion of Tolkowsky' s Ideal Cut Round Brilliant diamond where 32,400 rays were transmitted into the stone. In some embodiments, these numbers become the basis for computing the light return from all round cut diamonds by comparing the relative performance of the test diamonds to the standard defined by the Tolkowsky stone.

[0099] To grade a diamond, via the stone dimensions panel, the table is entered as 56%, the crown height is entered as 15%, the girdle is entered as 3% and the pavilion depth is entered as 43.3% (not illustrated). An auto scan is run and the computation panel as illustrated in FIG. 14 displays the performance values corresponding to the diamond. The test diamond values may be compared to the standard to determine relative performance. For example, dividing respective ones of the test stone values by corresponding ones of the ideal stone values, a percentage of the ideal may be determined for tested diamonds. Table 1 as shown below illustrates the test conclusions of the test diamond as percentages of the ideal stone. Table 1

Average dispersion and

reflection

As seen in the above test conclusions, the test stone outperforms the ideal standard in the total amount of light dispersed and in all three colors measured. Additionally, the test stone has less light reflected and less light leaked or wasted than the ideal. Note that reflected light is also returned towards the viewer and may be considered as one of the factors adding to the beauty of the diamond. Some embodiments provide that reflected light may be considered as scattered light and may not be a factor in evaluating beauty. For example, some embodiments provide that reflected light may be considered as glare that may reduce the quantity of light returned from the stone. Generally, leakage may be viewed as having a negative impact on performance and may be separated from the forms that are seen by the viewer. As illustrated, some embodiments provide that it can be determined that the test diamond, though a poorer cut than the ideal, may perform at a level that is almost indistinguishable from the ideal.

[0100] In addition to tracing the computer created light rays that are directed from identified transmission points to selected target points in transparent and/or translucent materials, such as gemstones, the amount of light reflected, refracted or wasted by a computer simulated profile of one or two round full cut diamonds may be provided. By developing two profiles of differently proportioned gemstones, side by side comparisons can be measured and seen as simulated rays of light are projected to, through and out of each diamond diagram.

[0101] Additionally, dramatic dynamic light displays can be developed and presented by using the controls in the 'Multi Ray Control and Target Control' input fields illustrated in FIG. 15, which illustrates a screenshot of an application according to some embodiments disclosed herein. As illustrated, four drop-down menus are available across the top of the screen include File, Edit, View and Run, in addition to a Help menu. A control panel and a two-dimensional graphic of a gemstone or other material may be displayed. For example, as illustrated, a crown/main profile of Tolkowsky's ideal round brilliant is positioned in the graphic portion of the display. Note, no adjustments have been provided corresponding to the thickness of the girdle of the gemstone illustrated in FIG. 15. According to some embodiments, options provided from selecting the edit menu include, but are not limited to, stone one dimensions, stone two dimensions and target point location. Some embodiments provide that target point location presents choices including set default and set manually. By selecting stone one dimensions, a panel appears on the left side of the screen and a computations panel may appear above and to the left of the profile, as shown in FIG. 17.

[0102] Some embodiments provide that any combination of proportions can be entered or the "Ideal" button may be selected. Entering the table, crown height and pavilion depth percentages may automatically calculate the precise crown and pavilion angles. When the Accept Button is activated, as illustrated in FIG. 12, a profile is created to the specifications designated on the panel. Some embodiments provide that the graphic profile of the gemstone may be displayed in a first color while the profile is being determined and may change to a second color once the proportions are entered correctly. For example, if the proportions are entered incorrectly or incompletely, the graphic profile may continue to be displayed in a color that signals a user that the data is not correct or complete.

[0103] Display options as discussed above may be selected and options on the dispersion analysis control panel are selected to run a scan. With one gemstone selected, the default settings may be included on screen, with 180 projection points with a single target point that may be in the center of the girdle. In some

embodiments, multiple target points, such as, for example, 60, 120, 18 or more may be selected. The profile may be centered relative to a circle divided into projection points that may be set at one degree of arc. 180 rays may be projected towards the target from 180 degrees on the left across the top of the profile to 0/360 degrees on the right. The 180 and 0/360 degree points form the end points of the girdle plane. As illustrated in FIG. 15, no thickness is added to the girdle, which results in the girdle defining a plane. If the girdle has been defined with a thickness, the target may reside at the center of a line extending across the bottom of the area. The end points of the line may be at the lowest points on the left and right of the girdle area. An illustration of this concept is shown in FIG. 16. [0104] Some embodiments provide that the default settings include 180 projection points and 1 target point. For example, the default target point may be at the center of the profile, on the girdle plane. The projection points may be calculated along a semi-circle arc from the left side of the girdle plane, sweeping over and across to the right side of the plane. The 180 degree arc may be divided by the number of projection points to determine the degree increment of the projection points.

Scanning activities and/or operations may be controlled by clicking and/or activating the "Run/Stop" button, as illustrated in FIG. 15. Some embodiments provide that if girdle thickness has been specified, the target plane is at the bottom of the girdle. A full scan according to some example embodiments may scan 180 target points from 180 transmission points. In this scan, the target points are located on the surface of the diagram at and above the bottom plane of the girdle section. The target points are located on imaginary straight lines that would connect the transmission points and the center of the line that forms the bottom of the girdle section at the point where the lines would intersect the upper surface of the diagram. A simulated ray is projected from each transmission point to every target point for a total of 32,400 rays.

[0105] Selecting the "On Screen" option (illustrated in the GUI of FIG. 15) shows each ray selected in the display options panel as it is projected from each of the transmission points to each of the target points. Some embodiments provide that several seconds are required to complete a scan of either one of 1 projection point and 180 target points or 180 projection points at one target point. If "On Screen" is not selected, the scan may be completed much more quickly. Additionally, if the

"Repeat" button is selected, repeated scans of the screen will run if one target and "On Screen" are selected. The target may be placed anywhere on the surface of or inside the diagram.

[0106] Changing the target point to any number above one (1) changes the location of the target points from the girdle area of the diagram to the upper surface of the Crown. If the number two (2) is entered and Run on the Run/Stop button is selected, a scan is completed with target points automatically selected at the 180 and 0/360 degree points. These two points are the start and finish markers and never change. Three (3) target points leaves the two at 180, 0/360 degrees and adds the third at the center of the table. As target points are added, they may be distributed equidistantly across the table until the seventh is included. With that addition, two (2) target points may be placed just below the intersections of the table and the crown main facets. The remaining three are spread equidistantly across the table. As target points are added, they may be spread across the upper surfaces, as described above.

[0107] Clicking the "View" drop-down from the menu bar (illustrated in the GUI of FIG. 17), options corresponding to the "Computations Panel" become available. Continuing with the example provided above, each of the 180 projected rays is traced into and through the diagram and is measured for the amount of returned, reflected and wasted light in each of the colors green, red and blue. When the final ray is measured, the total amount of light in each color and the total amount of light in all three colors is displayed on the panel. The far right column of the computations panel illustrated in FIG. 17 shows the total amount of light returned, reflected and wasted.

[0108] In some embodiments, the computations panel may be cut off and on by clicking the "View" dropdown menu and clicking the energy dispersion analysis box. At the bottom left corner is a box showing the angle of each ray as it is being processed.

[0109] Reference is now made to FIG. 17 which is a screenshot a GUI analyzing one of 180 rays of a scan as described above. The simulated ray Rl is projected from the upper left at 147.3 degrees and is aimed at the target point TP. A refracted ray R2 portion of the simulated ray is refracted into the diagram. A reflected ray R3 is a portion otf the simulated ray Rl that is reflected from the diagram. The colors are separated at the point of impingement but are so close together that they continue to appear as one until a first total internal reflection TIR1 occurs at the bottom of the pavilion. A second total internal reflection TIR2 directs the divided colors to the table where they are refracted.

[0110] On the right side of the control panel of the GUI illustrated in FIG. 17 is a section called target controls, which includes a "Set Default" button, a "Set Manually" button and a "Sync Views" box that will discussed below. The Set Default button sets the target in the center of the girdle. The 'Set Manually' allows the target to be manually placed anywhere in the diagram.

[0111] Returning to the "View" drop down-menu, a second selection "Stone 2" is available. Upon making this selection, the size of the screen splits and a second profile of the same size, shape and proportion as the first is displayed, as illustrated in FIG. 18. If the computation tables option in the View menu has been selected for Stone 1, it will also appear for Stone 2. If it was not selected, it will not appear for Stone 2. In the Edit menu, selecting Stone 2 dimensions produces a drop down menu to the left of the profile. Clicking Stone 2 dimensions in the Edit menu may also produce the second profile and the dimensions menu.

[0112] As with Stone 1, any set of proportions can be entered or the "Default" button may be selected for Stone 2. Entering the table, crown height and pavilion depth percentages may cause the precise crown and pavilion angles to be calculated. When the Accept Button is clicked, a profile may be created to the specifications designated on the panel. As discussed above, the color of the graphic that displays the stone profile may be used to indicate whether the stone data is incorrect and/or incomplete.

[0113] In some embodiments, different sets of data may be entered for each stone. The number of target points for both gemstones may remain the same, but the location of a single target may be manually set at different places. Clicking

"Run/Stop" in the Dispersion Analysis Controls commences a scan. Each stone can be run separately and/or together. With the 'On Screen' box selected, side by side visual comparisons of the gemstones are presented. If light flow is being calculated, the light dispersions box in the View menu may be activated. For rapid development of numbers, deselecting the "On Screen" button may stop the movement of rays across the screen(s) without stopping the calculation of the returned, reflected and wasted light.

[0114] Reference is now made to FIG. 18, which is a screenshot illustrating operations corresponding to two gemstones with target points set in different locations. These are shown as examples of operational capabilities disclosed herein and are not necessarily indicative of beneficial applications thereof. With one or both profiles showing, and using the GUI as illustrated in any of FIGS. 9A-9J, 12 and 17, in the "View" drop down menu, the "Dispersion Tables" option is deselected. In "Display Options", "Show Entry Rays" and "Show Target Reticle(s)" are selected. In "Multi Ray Controls", "Auto Roaming Target" and "Run" are selected. Regardless of the number showing in the "Projection Points" the program defaults to 180. Showing on the screen will be 180 rays each projected into the profiles from points set at one degree increments arranged across the crown(s) of the profile(s). The simulated rays are all aimed at a moving target that "roams" inside each profile. Some embodiments provide that the target commences its travels in an upward left direction until it contacts an interior facet line, however, this direction may be arbitrary. For example, a different default direction and/or a randomly generated direction may be used. Each simulated ray bounces off the facet line at an angle equal to the angle of incidence and continues this process until the "Stop" button is clicked. If two proportionally different profiles are showing, both target points simultaneously move to the upper left. Because the distances across the profiles are not equal and the angles at which the profile faces are set, one target will strike a surface prior to the time at which the second strikes. Because of the differences in the angles at which the profile faces are set the angles of incidence and reflection and the time at which the target strikes a surface may be different in each profile.

[0115] FIG. 19A is a screenshot that illustrates the target positions after about 30 seconds of run time. FIG. 19B includes a similar screenshot as FIG. 19A, but with the "Show Entry Rays" option selected in the "Display Options" panel in the GUI as illustrated in any of FIGS. 9A-9J and 17. Notice that the simulated rays are aimed into the figure at different angles relative to the location of the target point. Referring to FIG. 19C, the "Show Target" option is selected, the "Show Entry Rays" option is deselected and "Show Entry Reflections" option is selected. The entry rays become invisible and are replaced by the reflections of 180 rays. Referring to FIG. 19D, "Show Entry Rays" is selected, "Show Internal Rays" is selected and "Show Target" is selected. Note that the entry rays were added back to this screen to assist in demonstrating the complicated patterns of internal reflections. Without the entry rays being shown, the internal reflection patterns lack clear meaning and may be confusing. The target points are highlighted in blue. The left screen shows the target point at the bottom right of the pavilion and light rays entering across almost the entire surface of the stone. Referring to FIG. 19E, "Internal Rays", "Exit Rays" and "Target" are selected. These two screens show different internal and refracted light patterns in gemstones of different proportions. As illustrated, the screenshot only shows light refracted through the crown displayed in color. Not shown is light refracted through the pavilion surfaces which may not be shown in color.

[0116] Referring to FIG. 19F, "Internal Rays", "Wasted Exit Rays" and "Target" are selected in the GUI as illustrated in any of FIGS. 9A-9J and 17. The screenshot shows light lost or as it is known in the diamond business "Leaked" through the pavilion. The profile on the right is designed with a 4% girdle thickness. Light refracting through this area, regardless of its direction of travel, is considered leaked or wasted. Some embodiments provide that wasted light may be shown in a different color such as gray. Referring to FIG. 19G, all of the display options are selected except for "Entry Rays" in the GUI as illustrated in FIG. 17. Note that FIG. 19G, as well as other screen shots, illustrates specific instants in time of an otherwise dynamic display as the simulated rays and target points may be sequentially processed.

[0117] Reference is now made to FIG. 20, in analyzing gemstones having two different profiles, data corresponding to the computation panel in the GUI as illustrated in FIG. 17 may be provided for each of the gemstones defined in the profile by performing simultaneous scans of both profiles. As illustrated, both profiles are set at the crown and pavilion main facets. The first profile (i.e., the profile on the left) has a table width of 53%, crown height of 16.2%, girdle thickness of 1.7% and pavilion depth of 43.1%. Clicking "Accept" displays the Tolkowsky ideal design with the addition of the 1.7% Girdle Thickness. The second profile (i.e., the profile on the right) has a table width of 65%, crown height of 12%, girdle thickness of 4% and pavilion depth of 40%. As shown in the computational panels corresponding to each of the scans and displayed at the top left of each scan window, the results of the scan of the first (ideal) stone may be the basis upon which other scans are compared. As such, the second stone results may be further expressed as percentages of the first stone results in the following Table 2.

Table 2

[0118] As illustrated above, Table 2 shows the percentage totals of dispersion, reflection and leakage for all three colors and for the total. Additionally, the average of the combined dispersion and reflection are shown for each of the three colors and for the total. As well, average values corresponding to the combined dispersion, reflectance and leakage are shown for each of the three colors and for the total. As shown by the dispersion and reflection values that are consistently greater than or equal to those of the ideal stone, the second stone disperses and reflects more light than the ideal stone. Additionally, as shown by the leakage values that are less than unity, the second stone leaks less than the ideal stone. As such, according to embodiments disclosed herein, it can be shown that the second stone, which previously may have been considered more poorly cut relative to the ideal, may actually outperform the ideal in quantifiable metrics.

[0119] As disclosed above, embodiments as described herein may include one or more computer executable applications that present a graphic model that is a representation of the two dimensional profile of a gem stone. Dimensions of the profile may be adjusted, and/or provided via one or more menus and/or interfaces such as, for example, an edit profile menu and/or option.

[0120] In use and operation, the manner in which light rays may be refracted into, reflected inside and/or reflected from a surface of a cut gem stone may be determined and/or displayed. Additionally, some embodiments provide that the light intensities lost due to refraction may be determined, estimated and/or calculated. In this regard, operations herein may provide light tracing that may include a dispersion analysis, multiple ray tracing display and/or manual single ray tracing on singular and/or multiple different gem stone profiles simultaneously and/or consecutively.

[0121] Some embodiments provide that dispersion analysis may include tracing a light ray into and through a model while computing the intensity losses, intensity distribution and dispersion of the original light ray as it is separated

(dispersed) into different spectral colors. As discussed herein, dispersion analysis may determine the dispersion into three different spectral colors, however, the invention is not so limited. For example, a light ray may be dispersed into a quantity of colors less than or greater than three colors according to embodiments disclosed herein. Continuing with the example of three colors, which may be referred to as the spectral components of the original light ray, the spectral components may each be traced individually through the model. Some embodiments provide that data corresponding to each spectral component may initially be assigned and/or include a percentage portion of the total intensity. The intensity losses of each spectral component ray may be computed and/or summarized for the light ray as a whole and reported via an energy dispersion table that may be generated and/or displayed. An energy dispersion table may include data such as illustrated below in Table 3 :

Table 3 Green Red Blue Total

Returned 24.141 1.029033 24.026 72.455

Used 9.192 9.046 9.307 27.545

Wasted 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000

As illustrated, the energy dispersion table may display the calculated returned intensities of each of the three spectral components that are the dispersed rays, namely, the green, red and blue components and the total returned intensity as the sum of the returned intensities of the three spectral components. Additionally, the percentages of the intensities that were used, or lost due to reflection loss

corresponding to the initial refraction may be displayed. Some embodiments of the present invention provide that the reflection loss may be determined using Fresnel's Laws. The energy dispersion table may also display the percentage of the intensities that are wasted for each of the spectral components and a total thereof. As used herein, the term wasted may refer to light rays that are refracted from the stone via one of the facets that is below the crown of the stone.

[0122] In addition to displaying tabular and profile data corresponding to a stone, reference is now made to FIG. 21, which is a display of multiple light ray tracing through a stone according to some embodiments of the present invention. As illustrated in FIG. 21, multiple light rays may be simultaneously projected through the stone. For example, each of the spectral components determined in the dispersion analysis of multiple different light rays may be displayed as they are projected through the stone. Note that the light rays displayed in FIG. 21 correspond to the display options that are selected in the display options menu in a GUI as disclosed herein. For example, based on the display options settings, the live exit rays are displayed exiting the facets of the stone above the crown and the wasted exit rays are shown exiting the facets of the stone below the crown. Additionally, the entry reflections, internal rays and target reticle are shown.

[0123] Brief reference is made to FIG. 22, which is a display of a manual ray tracing operation that may be performed according to some embodiments of the present invention. As illustrated in FIG. 22, a manual ray tracing functionality may be provided in that permits a user to manually move the origin point and/or the target reticle of a single light ray as the light ray is projected through the dispersion process. In this manner a two-dimensional profile and performance analysis may be performed on a cut gemstone using a two-dimensional profile of the stone at multiple different views, perspectives and/or angles.

[0124] In addition to two-dimensional ray analysis, some embodiments include operations that simulate, determine, calculate and/or display light rays that are projected into the upper surfaces of a gemstone and measuring the amount of light retransmitted therein in a three-dimensional profile of a cut gemstone. In this regard, multiple fields for receiving inputs corresponding to gemstone dimensions and a three-dimensional rendering of a gemstone according to some embodiments of the present invention may be provided. Similar to the two-dimensional operations discussed above with respect to FIGS. 3-22, a dispersion analysis of multiple light ray vectors on a three-dimensional stone model may be performed.

[0125] Some embodiments provide a three-dimensional model that may be constructed from data read from a stone -specific output file of a stone scanning and/or analyzing apparatus. In some embodiments, the stone scanning apparatus may be integrated into systems, operations, devices and/or methods disclosed herein, whereas some embodiments provide that the stone-specific output file ("data file") is a data file that may be received from an outside source, such as, for example, a third party. The data file may represent a true virtual model of the scanned physical stone. The three-dimensional model may be displayed at a perspective, angle, position, size and/or scale that may be user-selectable. In addition to displaying the three- dimensional model, operations may include performing a dispersion analysis on the stone. For example, some embodiments provide that an energy dispersion table as described above regarding Table 3 may be generated and/or populated using dispersion analysis of the three-dimensional stone model.

[0126] Some embodiments provide that the dispersion analysis of the three- dimensional model may be performed using an array of projection points in the form of a dome over the model stone. The projection points may define points from which light rays are projected to originate. For example, reference is made to FIG. 23, which is a screenshot generated according to operations for performing an analysis of a three-dimensional model of a stone according to some embodiments of the present invention. The analysis may be performed by projecting light rays from each of the projection points to at least one target point that is on the surface of and/or inside the three-dimensional model of the stone. As illustrated, the projection points may be computed and stored in an evenly distributed pattern using, for example, 3 degree longitudinal and latitudinal increments. Some embodiments provide that the size of the longitudinal and/or latitudinal increments may be set as greater and/or less than 3 degrees. As the size of the longitudinal and/or latitudinal increments increases, the distance between the projection points increases and thus the number of projection points decreases.

[0127] Once the projection points are determined, projected light rays may be computed from each of the projection points to one or more designated target points. In some embodiments, an array of target points that may be evenly distributed across the face of the model's crown and table may be computed. When multiple target points are employed, a light ray may be simulated from each projection point to each target point. For example, brief reference is made to FIG. 24, which illustrates a three-dimensional stone model that includes multiple target points distributed on the stone surface.

[0128] Reference is now made to FIG. 25, which is a block diagram illustrating operations for tracing a single light ray according to some embodiments of the present invention. Operations include computing the incident point (block 102). The incident point, which may be referred to as the point of collision, may be defined as the three dimensional point at which an external light ray intersects a surface of the three-dimensional model. Some embodiments provide that the facet of the model in which the incident point lies may be recorded as the incident facet. Brief reference is now made to FIG. 26, which is a vector diagram illustrating the relative angles of light rays as described herein. Once the incident point is computed, the angle of incidence (AOI) may be computed (block 104). The AOI may be determined as the angle between a vector corresponding to the external light ray and a normal vector corresponding to the incident facet. Additionally, the reflection angle may be computed (block 106). The reflection angle may be determined as the angle at which the light ray vector would reflect from the incident facet and has the same value as the AOI, but has an opposite sign from the AOI. Stated differently, the reflection angle is symmetrical with the AOI with the normal vector of the incident facet as the axis of symmetry.

[0129] Referring back to FIG. 25, the incident Fresnel terms may be generated (block 108). The incident Fresnel terms may be determined as percentages of the light ray's intensity that are reflected and refracted. These values may be determined using Fresnel's Laws, which generally describe the amount of light transmitted and reflected when moving between media of differing refractive indices. The boundary between the media of differing surfaces may be the incident facet as discussed herein and may also referred to as an interface. Brief reference is made to FIG. 27, which is a vector diagram illustrating the relative angles of light rays as described herein. The fraction of incident power that is reflected from an interface is given by the reflectance R and the fraction of incident power that is refracted is given by the transmittance T. The calculations of R and T depend on the polarization of the incident ray. The incident light polarized with the electric field of the light perpendicular to the plane of the incident facet is referred to as S polarized and the incident light polarized in the plane of the incident facet is referred to as P polarized. As such, the amplitude coefficients of reflection for the S and P polarized incident light may be expressed by the following respective expressions, where n,- and n_t are the refractive indices of the first and second media (e.g., air and stone) and 9j and 0_t are the angle of incidence (AOI) and angle of refraction (which may be derived by Snell's law), respectively :

Additionally, the amplitude coefficients of transmittance for the S and P polarized incident light may be expressed by the following respective expressions:

2n.cos6. 2n.cosG.

t = i 1

s n 1. cos61. + ' n t os6_t t n 1.cosQ t. + n tcosQ 1.

Using the amplitude coefficients of reflection for the S and P polarized incident light (r_s and r_p), the reflectance R_s and R_p, which for each of the S and P polarized incident light may be determined using the following expressions:

Additionally, the transmittance T_s and T_p, which for each of the S and P polarized incident light may be determined using the following expressions:

Using the reflectance values R_s and R_p, and the transmittance values T_s and T_p, the total reflectance R_tot_ai and transmittance T_totai may be determined using the following expressions:

total = T + T

p

[0130] Referring back to FIG. 25, dispersed light ray data may be generated by dividing the external light ray into spectral component rays (block 110). For example, some embodiments provide that the external light ray may be divided into three spectral component rays that will be internal rays to the stone. Although discussed in terms of three spectral component rays, generating the dispersed light may include dividing the external light ray into less than and/or more than three different spectral component rays. The spectral component rays may be assigned a color index and a corresponding refraction index based on the spectral wavelength of the color, which may be selectable by a user. A critical refraction angle may be computed for each spectral component ray based on its refraction index. For example, Table 4 as follows, lists refraction indices that may be used for different spectral component rays entering a diamond gem stone:

Table 4

Additionally, each of the spectral component rays may be assigned an initial intensity as a portion of the visible spectrum. Some embodiments provide that the value of the initial intensity may be determined by the simulated ray's color index. Brief reference is made to FIG. 28, which is a graph plotting the radiation intensity as a function of the color of light in the visible spectrum according to some embodiments of the present invention. As a white light ray enters the profile or model, the initial refraction may cause the spectral component rays to be dispersed therefrom (e.g., the three colors red, green and blue in the present example). The intensity of the original white light ray may be assumed as 100% and the intensity may be divided among the three spectral component rays. As illustrated, the blue boundary of the visible spectrum crosses the intensity curve at about 63.64%, the green portion of the visible spectrum is at about 100% on the intensity curve, and the red boundary of the visible spectrum cross the intensity curve at 68.73%. The high point of the curve is considered to represent the brightest intensity that is the 100% intensity of the incoming light ray in the program. Since the linear sum of the intensity percentages corresponding to the spectral component rays is greater than 100%, the relative values may be normalized by dividing each of the spectral component ray intensities by a sum of all three of the spectral component ray intensities. According to the present example, the sum of the three spectral component ray intensities is:

100 + 68.73 + 63.64 = 232.37.

As such, the spectral component ray intensities may be determined as:

100 / 232.37 = 43.0348% green,

68.73 / 232.37 = 29.5778% red,

63.64 / 232.37 = 27.3874% blue,

where the sum of the three spectral component ray intensities is:

43.0348 + 29.5778 + 27.3874 = 100.0.

[0131] Referring back to FIG. 25, a point of origin for each of the spectral component rays independently may be determined as the incident point of the external light ray (block 112). A direction vector for each of the spectral component rays may be determined using the respective ray refraction indices and the AOI of the external light ray (block 114). The spectral component rays may be each traced independently (block 116). Tracing the spectral component rays may include determining an incident point of each ray with a facet of the model stone. For example, an incident point may be the three dimensional point at which a spectral component ray intersects a facet of the model stone internally. Tracing may further include determining the AOI, reflection angle and Fresnel terms, as discussed above, corresponding to each of the spectral component rays. Using the simulated ray critical refraction angles, as discussed above, it may be determined whether each of the spectral component rays will reflect internally or refract and exit the model stone. For example, if a spectral component ray AOI is less than or equal to that ray's critical refraction angle, the spectral component ray incident type is considered to be refraction. Otherwise the spectral component ray incident type may be reflection. If the spectral component ray incident type is reflection, then the above steps regarding tracing the internal rays may be repeated until a refraction incident type occurs.

[0132] Operations also include identifying and discarding lost or wasted light rays (block 118). As each of the spectral component rays is traced in the model stone, a refraction incident type that occurs at an incident facet that is below the crown may be identified as wasted and discarded. Additionally, in some embodiments, a maximum number of internal reflections may be determined such that any spectral component that is reflected internally more times than the maximum number of internal reflections may be identified as lost and may be discarded. Once all of the spectral component rays have refracted and exited the stone model, the residual intensities corresponding to the spectral components may be summarized, tabulated, reported and/or displayed.

[0133] As disclosed above, systems, methods, graphical user interfaces and/or computer program products may provide an objective basis to evaluate the amount of light that is returned from a transparent and/or translucent object. Although discussed by way of example in reference to gemstones, such as, for example, polished gemstones, the disclosure herein is not so limited. An objective analysis of light return may be provided for an object that may be defined in three dimensions with a substantial measure of accuracy for a true representation of the shape and external structure, which may be created in, generated by and/or delivered to systems and/or products disclosed herein.

[0134] As discussed above, the ideal (Tolkowsky) design is a two

dimensional design that does not include thickness of the girdle or the edge. In that regard, some embodiments disclosed herein provide a data file corresponding to a modified ideal design that includes a girdle and culet. For example, an image corresponding to a two-dimensional profile of the data file is illustrated in FIG. 29. The surface of circular three-dimensional object may include multiple angular planes, which may create a scalloped edge. For example, reference is made to FIG. 30, which is an image corresponding to the girdle edge in a three-dimensional model of the modified ideal design. Note that the thickness of the edge varies along the curve that is created as the plane approaches the circumference of the circular edge. In this manner, the three-dimensional model of the ideal design may provide a standard for comparing light transmission analysis for other gemstones. In some embodiments, a data file corresponding to the three-dimensional model may include dimensional data that is generated, stored and/or formatted using one or more computer automated drafting (CAD) applications. Additionally, some embodiments provide that an integrated data file may include data corresponding to one or more materials and/or light transmission properties of a stone or other material being analyzed.

[0135] Some embodiments provide that systems, methods, graphical user interfaces and/or computer program products may receive a data file corresponding to the ideal design and/or an actual stone to be analyzed in the form of a CAD file, among others. Analysis and/or display options may be determined using a dispersion analysis control panel as discussed and illustrated above regarding, for example, FIG. 23. In the context of the three-dimensional analysis, some and/or all of the functions in the display options menu may be selectively employed as a complete scan that is performed without interruption and/or in a single shot scan that allows a user to step through the scans, one ray at a time. Some embodiments provide that a single shot scan allows the user to select target points on the surface of the stone and project rays to that point. In some embodiments, the computer randomly selects the projection point of each ray, while in other embodiments a predetermined set(s) of projection points is identified. Some embodiments provide that the single shot scan may be useful for demonstration purposes and may not be not included in a grading process. In some embodiments, operations may perform groups of scans that are subsets of a complete scan without additional inputs from a user.

[0136] In some embodiments, longitudinal and latitudinal light projection points and target points may be selected from the dispersion analysis controls menu. For example, brief reference is made to FIG. 31 A, which is a screen shot illustrating a side view of a three-dimensional ideal model with a dome of projection points at one degree longitude and latitude increments. Additionally, brief reference is made to FIG. 3 IB, which is a screen shot illustrating a top view of a three-dimensional ideal model with target points at one degree longitude and latitude increments. Further, brief reference is made to FIG. 31C, which is a screen shot illustrating a perspective view of a three-dimensional ideal model with target points at one degree longitude and latitude increments. Yet further, brief reference is made to FIG. 3 ID, which is a screen shot illustrating a side view of a three-dimensional ideal model with projection points at 45 degree longitudinal increments and 1 degree latitudinal increments and target points at 45 degree longitudinal and latitudinal increments. Yet further, brief reference is made to FIG. 3 IE, which is a screen shot illustrating a top view of a three-dimensional ideal model with projection points at 1 degree longitudinal increments and 10 degree latitudinal increments. Yet further, brief reference is made to FIG. 3 IF, which is a screen shot illustrating a perspective view of a three- dimensional ideal model with projection points at 1 degree longitudinal increments and 10 degree latitudinal increments. Yet further, brief reference is made to FIG. 31G, which is a screen shot illustrating a perspective view of a three-dimensional ideal model with target and projection points each at 6 degree longitudinal and latitudinal increments.

[0137] Note that as a complete scan analyzes a simulated ray from each projection point to each target point, the complete scan may analyze over a billion independent light rays. In this regard, depending of the processing resources, a user may select a greater degree increment between the projection and/or target point longitudes and/or latitudes. For example, at a two degree longitudinal and latitudinal increment for projection and target points, over 60 million independent light rays are analyzed in a complete scan. In addition to computationally performing the analysis, the currently analyzed and/or previously analyzed light rays may be displayed during and/or after a complete scan is performed.

[0138] Some embodiments provide that the dispersion analysis controls may provide control over the starting and stopping using a "Run/Stop" button in the GUI. In some embodiments, the analysis may be selectively displayed using an "On Screen" button in the GUI. Some embodiments provide that displaying the scans as they are being analyzed may create a processing burden that may slow the calculating process. Additionally, the target and/or projection points may be selectively displayed and/or hidden via the GUI. As disclosed above regarding two-dimensional analysis, a dispersion table may be provided that includes calculated numerical results of the analyzed light rays. Although example embodiments discussed herein use three colors of spectral components, other and/or additional spectral components may be provided.. For example, colors corresponding to the visible light spectrum may include red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo and violet, among others.

[0139] Calculated numerical results may include, returned light, reflected light and/or wasted light, among others. Some embodiments provide that data corresponding to analyzed gemstones may be compared to data corresponding to the ideal design. For example, some embodiments provide that corresponding data values generated for an analyzed stone may be divided by the corresponding data values of the ideal design, which will yield a percentage value relative to the ideal. In this manner, the analyzed stone may be objectively graded relative to the standard and may be compared to other gemstones that are similarly graded.

[0140] FIG. 32 is a block diagram of a data processing

system/method/computer program product 200 such as may be embodied according to operations disclosed herein. The system/method/computer program product 200 may include a processor 210, such as one or more enterprise, application, personal, pervasive and/or embedded computer systems that may be standalone and/or connected by a wired and/or wireless, real and/or virtual, public and/or private network including the Internet. A bus 212 connects the processor with one or more memory devices 220, which may include solid state memory devices (such as static, dynamic, volatile and/or non- volatile solid state memory devices) and/or movable memories (such as rotatable magnetic and/or optical memory devices in the form of discs and/or tapes). The memory devices 220 may be arranged in a hierarchy of devices and may be standalone and/or connected by a wired and/or wireless, real and/or virtual, public and/or private network including the Internet. The memory devices 220 may store a GUI as disclosed herein 222, a gemstone analyzer 224 that is configured to perform operations as disclosed herein and a processing engine 226. The GUI 222, the gemstone analyzer 224 and/or the processing engine 226 may be embodied by computer-readable program code. However, in other embodiments, the GUI 222, the gemstone analyzer 224 and/or the processing engine 226 may be embodied, at least in part, by special purpose hardware including application-specific integrated circuits.

[0141] The data processing system/method 200 may be configured to receive inputs from a variety of input devices 230 include user interfaces such as keyboards, touch-screens, and/or graphical interfaces such as a mouse, stylus and/or trackball, among others. Additionally, the input devices 230 may include data streams, computer readable media, and/or data collection devices, such as a gemstone scanner, among others. The data processing system/method 200 may be configured to provide output data to output devices 240. Such devices include, printers, displays, data writing devices and/or projection devices among others.

[0142] Reference is now made to FIG. 33, which is a schematic block diagram illustrating systems, methods, and devices for providing quantitative data to a mobile terminal user for evaluating grading reports and/or certificates according to some embodiments of the present invention. A communications system 300 includes a communications network 305, a plurality of transmitters 320a-320c coupled thereto, and a mobile device 325. The communications system 300 may further include a plurality of satellites 335a and 335b. The communications system 300 may further include a plurality of servers, such as a gemstone data server 350, coupled to the communication network 305.

[0143] The plurality of transmitters 320a-320c are configured to wirelessly send and receive signals to/from the mobile device 325 according to one or more communication protocols. The transmitters 320a-320c may also send and receive signals and/or data to/from the gemstone data server 350. The mobile device 325 may be configured to wirelessly send and receive communication signals to/from the transmitters 320a-320c. Some embodiments provide that such communication signals and/or portions thereof may be sent from and/or received by the gemstone data server 350.

[0144] For example, the mobile device 325 may include an application that is operable to receive one or more user inputs that include data that corresponds to a gemstone. Such gemstone data may include one or more types of dimensional data that corresponds to the gemstone. In some embodiments, the gemstone data may include transmissive property data including a gemstone type (e.g., diamond, ruby, sapphire, etc.) and or more specific transmissive property data including color classification and/or description. Some embodiments provide that the gemstone data may be received via user inputs via one or more user interfaces on the mobile device 325, however the invention is not so limited. For example, the gemstone data may be received into the mobile device via a data scanner that may scan a data image, such as, for example, a one and/or two dimensional barcode, among others. In some embodiments, the data may be received through a wired and/or wireless network including a wide area network (WAN), a local area network (LAN), wireless local area network (WLAN) and/or one or more types of near field communication (NFC) near field communication devices and/or protocols.

[0145] In some embodiments, the gemstone data may include a unique identifier that corresponds to a particular gemstone. The unique identifier may be generated by a third party gemstone evaluator and may be stored in one or more data repositories that include additional gemstone data that is associated therewith. For example, stored gemstone data may include data that is generated by a gemstone scanning apparatus as described above. As such, the stored gemstone data may include a stone-specific output file ("data file") that is a data file that may represent a true virtual model of the scanned physical gemstone.

[0146] In some embodiments, the gemstone data server 350 may receive gemstone data from the mobile device 325 and may compute and/or lookup additional gemstone data corresponding to that gemstone. Additional data determined by the gemstone data server may include dimensional and/or light transmissive properties and/or characteristics. The gemstone data server 350 may then provide some or all of the additional gemstone data to the mobile device 325. In some embodiments, the mobile device 325 may be operable to display one or more components of the additional gemstone data that is received from the gemstone data server 350.

[0147] Although the communications system 300 has been described with reference to specific elements as shown in FIG. 33, communication systems according to embodiments of the present invention are not limited to the elements illustrated therein and may include additional elements which may be configured to perform the operations and/or functions described herein.

[0148] As used herein, the term "mobile terminal" or "mobile device" may include a satellite or cellular radiotelephone with or without a multi-line display; a Personal Communications System (PCS) terminal that may combine a cellular radiotelephone with data processing, facsimile and data communications capabilities; a PDA that can include a radiotelephone, pager, Internet/intranet access, Web browser, organizer, calendar and/or a global positioning system (GPS) receiver; and a conventional laptop and/or palmtop receiver or other appliance that includes a radiotelephone transceiver. Mobile terminals may also be referred to as "pervasive computing" devices. [0149] Reference is now made to FIG. 34, which is a block diagram illustrating a mobile terminal and related methods of operation according to some embodiments of the present invention. In some embodiments, the mobile terminal 400 may correspond to the mobile terminal 325 of FIG. 33. As shown in FIG. 34, the mobile terminal 400 includes a wireless transceiver 425, an antenna 465, a processor 440, a memory 430, a speaker 438 and a user interface 455. Depending on the functionalities offered by the mobile terminal 400, the user interface 455 may include a microphone 420, a display 410 (such as a liquid crystal display), a joystick 470, a keypad 405, a touch sensitive display 460, a dial 475, navigation/directional keys 480, and/or a pointing device 485 (such as a mouse, track ball, touch pad, etc.). However, additional and/or fewer elements of the user interface 455 may actually be provided. For example, an image capture device (not shown) may be included that is configured to capture static (photographs) and/or dynamic (video) images. For example, such images may include data content corresponding to an identifier and/or an address at which data may be retrieved and/or received from. For example, an image may correspond to a gemstone identifier. For example, the touch sensitive display 460 may be provided in a personal digital assistant (PDA) that does not include a display 410, a keypad 405, and/or a pointing device 485.

[0150] The transceiver 425 may include a transmitter circuit 450 and a receiver circuit 445, which respectively transmit outgoing radio frequency signals and receive incoming radio frequency signals via the antenna 465. The radio frequency signals may include both traffic and control signals (e.g., paging signals/messages for incoming calls), which may be used to establish and maintain communication with another party or destination. The transceiver 425 further includes a wireless local area network interface transceiver configured to establish a wireless client-server connection, such as an ad hoc wireless connection, via the antenna 465. As used herein, an "ad hoc wireless connection" refers to a direct connection between two devices that may be established for the duration of one session and may require no base station. The transceiver 425 is configured to establish such an ad hoc wireless connection according to a localized wireless connection protocol, such as a Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and/or IR connection protocol. However, the transceiver 425 may also be configured to establish a wireless client-server connection with one or more servers over a network, such as the network 305 of FIG. 33, via a router and/or access point in some embodiments. [0151] The processor 440 is coupled to the transceiver 425, the memory 430, the speaker 438, and the user interface 455. The processor 440 may be, for example, a commercially available or custom microprocessor configured to coordinate and manage operations of the transceiver 425, the memory 430, the speaker 438, and/or the user interface 455. The memory 430 may represent a hierarchy of memory that may include volatile and/or nonvolatile memory, such as removable flash, magnetic, and/or optical rewritable nonvolatile memory. The memory 430 may be configured to store several categories of software, such as an operating system, application programs, and input/output (I/O) device drivers. The operating system controls the management and/or operation of mobile terminal resources, and may coordinate execution of programs by the processor 440. The I/O device drivers typically include software routines accessed through the operating system by the application programs to communicate with input/output devices. The application programs implement various features according to embodiments of the present invention, and preferably include at least one gemstone analysis application 422 which supports operations for receiving and providing data corresponding to a gemstone, possibly including data received via the transceiver 425, as well as operations for providing a graphical user interface (GUI) used to receive and display gemstone data.

[0152] More particularly, still referring to FIG. 34, the gemstone analysis application 422 is configured to provide the graphical user interface (GUI) and to generate commands for receiving and providing and/or displaying gemstone data. In some embodiments, the gemstone analysis application 422 including the GUI may be implemented as a standalone application that can be installed in the memory 430 of the mobile terminal 400. More particularly, the memory 430 may include a Java Virtual Machine that provides access to native device functionality, and may allow for development of standalone applications. As such, the gemstone analysis application 422 may be installed in the memory 430 of the mobile terminal 400.

[0153] Further operations of the mobile terminal 400 of FIG. 34 will now be discussed with reference to FIG. 35, which is a flowchart illustrating operations corresponding to methods for estimating stone-specific attributes using a mobile terminal according to some embodiments described herein. However, it is to be understood that the example operations illustrated in the flowchart of FIG. 35 may be performed by other components of the mobile terminal in some embodiments.

Referring now to FIGS. 34 and 35, the mobile terminal 400 receives gemstone values corresponding to a cut gemstone into a user interface 455 (block 502). Some embodiments provide that the gemstone values are received from a user via a graphical user interface on the mobile device. In this regard, operations disclosed in the discussion of FIG. 35 may be performed by an application that includes code that is configured to be executable on the mobile terminal. Other embodiments include a user interface 455 that includes various ones of user input features as described above regarding FIG. 34.

[0154] In some embodiments, the received gemstone values may be received as a unique identifier that corresponds to the cut gemstone. For example, values corresponding to certain properties of the cut gemstone may be stored in a remote and/or central data store and/or repository. In this regard, the unique identifier may be received into the mobile terminal 400, which may request, receive and/or retrieve gemstone values. The gemstone values received by the mobile terminal 400 may include dimension values of the cut gemstone. By way of example, briefly referring to FIG. 1, gemstone values corresponding to a diameter (or width) of the table, the crown height and/or the pavilion depth, among others, may be received.

[0155] Referring now to FIGS. 34 and 35, the mobile terminal 400 may compute at least one gemstone angle using at least one received gemstone value (block 504). For example, the gemstone analysis application 422 that may be stored in the memory 430 may be executed by the processor 440 to compute the at least one gemstone angle. In some embodiments, a crown angle (FIG. 1, 105) and/or a pavilion angle (FIG. 1, 103), among others may be provided. Although not illustrated as such, the pavilion and crown angles may also be expressed relative to a normal vector that is perpendicular to the table surface of the gemstone. Once the at least one angle is computed, the mobile terminal 400 may display the value(s) thereof (block 506). For example, via the processor 440, one or more angle values of the gemstone may be displayed via the display 410.

[0156] In some embodiments, a graphic image of a gemstone profile may be displayed as an alternative to and/or in combination with the angle values and/or the dimension data. In this manner, a user may receive the data and at least one image that provides context, relevance and/or meaning to the data. Some embodiments provide that the graphic image of the gemstone profile is a default image that does not include the specific relative dimensions and/or angles corresponding to the gemstone. In some embodiments, the graphic image of the gemstone profile is rendered substantially to scale and thus substantially includes the relative dimensions and/or angles corresponding to the gemstone. Some embodiments provide that the graphic image of the gemstone profile and the configuration thereof is user selectable.

[0157] The gemstone analysis application 422 may further be configured to generate a graphical user interface (GUI) that may be implemented via the touch- sensitive display 460 (block 508). As such, one, and or multiple ones of the operations performed via the gemstone analysis application 422 may be realized directly through the GUI.

[0158] Reference is now made to FIG. 36, which is a schematic view of a GUI on a mobile terminal in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention. A GUI 520 corresponding to a gemstone analyzer application may include an information and control portion 521 that may include identification information regarding the gemstone analyzer application including the name, version, and/or release, among others. Although not illustrated, the information and control portion 521 may include one or more control icons including icons that may be actuated by a user to exit, minimize, and/or save the results in the application, among others.

Additionally, other information such as system information including time, date, operating system information among others may be included in the information and control portion 521.

[0159] The GUI 520 may include one or more data entry interfaces 522a-c. for example, a table width data entry interface 522a may be actuated by a user to result in additional GUI functionality that permits the input of data corresponding to the table width of a gemstone. In some embodiments, actuating the table width data entry interface 522a may cause a numeric interface (not shown) to be displayed through which a user may input a numeric value that corresponds to the table width of the gemstone. Other embodiments may include up/down functionality that is configured to receive a user input that causes a value to increase/decrease by a given and/or user-selectable increment. Such embodiments may include, for example, up/down arrows (not shown) that may be actuated by a user via the GUI 520. In addition to the table width data entry interface 522a, a crown height data entry interface 522b and a pavilion depth data entry interface 522c may be included. Data fields 524a-c may be provided that may display values corresponding to data received via respective ones of the data entry interfaces 522a-c. [0160] In some embodiments, the GUI 520 may include one or more gemstone identifier data entry interfaces 536 that are configured to be actuated by a user to result in additional GUI functionality that permits the input of data a gemstone identifier that corresponds to a specific gemstone that has been analyzed. In some embodiments, actuating the gemstone identifier data entry interface 536 may cause a numeric and/or alphanumeric interface (not shown) to be displayed through which a user may input a numeric and/or alphanumeric value that corresponds to a gemstone identifier that is associated with the gemstone. One or more data fields 538 may be provided that may display the numeric and/or alphanumeric value that was received via the gemstone identifier data entry interface 536. Once the gemstone identifier is entered, gemstone data that is associated with that gemstone may then be received via a communications network. For example, the table width, crown height and/or pavilion depth may be received and the corresponding data fields may be

automatically populated using the received data.

[0161] A get angles actuator 526 may be actuated by a user to cause the application to determine one or more angles corresponding to the gemstone. An angle value display field 528 may be provided to display one or more angles that are determined by the application. In some embodiments, a graphic display 532 may be included that may display a gemstone profile image. In some embodiments, the gemstone profile image may include a default image that may include values that are entered by the user and/or calculated by the application. Some embodiments provide that the gemstone profile image may be a scale image that substantially represents the relative angles and dimensions of the gemstone based on the data that is received and/ determined.

[0162] In use and operation, a user considering a gemstone purchase may be presented with a gemstone document that purports to provide data corresponding to the physical characteristics of the gemstone. For example, a gemstone document may be provided as a certificate from one or more gemstone grading organizations and/or agencies. By way of example, brief reference is made to FIG. 37, which is a block diagram illustrating an example of a gemstone grading document. Returning to FIG. 36, the user may then enter the dimensional data from the document into the GUI 520 that may be operating on the user's mobile terminal. Once the dimensional data is entered, the angle computations may be performed via the get angles actuator 526. Similarly, dimensional data that is received corresponding to the gemstone identifier 536 may also be used to perform the angle computations. The angle data in the angle value display field may then be compared to angles provided in the gemstone document. In this manner, the user may identify a gemstone document that may include incorrect and/or inaccurate data and/or information. Yet further, when the dimensional data is received in association with the gemstone identifier, different ones of the data fields and/or the graphical display 532 may be generated in a different color, shade, or other visually distinctive manner to identify incorrect, inconsistent and/or inaccurate information and/or data.

[0163] Specific exemplary embodiments are described herein with reference to the accompanying drawings. Embodiments may include many different forms and should not be construed as limited as set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope thereof to those skilled in the art. The terminology used in the detailed description of the particular exemplary embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings is not intended to be limiting. In the drawings, like numbers refer to like elements.

[0164] As used herein, the singular forms "a", "an" and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless expressly stated otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms "includes," "comprises," "including" and/or "comprising," when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof. It will be understood that when an element is referred to as being

"connected" or "coupled" to another element, it can be directly connected or coupled to the other element or intervening elements may be present. Furthermore,

"connected" or "coupled" as used herein may include wirelessly connected or coupled. As used herein, the term "and/or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. As used herein, a "/" between ones of any plurality of terms is an inclusive alternative expression indicating that either or both of the terms may be applicable in the context thereof.

[0165] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs. It will be further understood that terms, such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and the present specification and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein.

[0166] As will be appreciated by one of skill in the art, the present disclosure may be embodied as methods, systems, or computer program products. Accordingly, the present disclosure may take the form of an entirely hardware embodiment, a software embodiment or an embodiment combining software and hardware aspects all generally referred to herein as a "circuit" or "module." Furthermore, the present disclosure may take the form of computer program products comprising computer- usable storage medium having computer-usable program code embodied in the medium. Any suitable computer readable medium may be utilized including hard disks, CD-ROMs, optical storage devices, a transmission media such as those supporting the Internet or an intranet, or magnetic storage devices.

[0167] Computer program code for carrying out operations of the present disclosure may be written in an object oriented programming language such as Python, Java®, PERL, C, C+, C++ and/or using development applications including, for example, Microsoft Visual Studio, among others. However, the computer program code for carrying out operations of the present disclosure may also be written in conventional procedural programming languages, such as the "C" programming language and/or a lower level assembler language. The program code may execute entirely on a user's computer (i.e., controller of the user's mobile terminal), partly on a user's computer, as a stand-alone software package, partly on a user's computer and partly on a remote computer or entirely on a remote computer. In the latter scenario, the remote computer may be connected to the user's computer through a local area network (LAN) or a wide area network (WAN), or the connection may be made to an external computer (for example, through the Internet using an Internet Service Provider).

[0168] Furthermore, the present disclosure is described in part above with reference to flowchart illustrations and/or block diagrams of methods, apparatus (systems) and computer program products according to embodiments of the disclosure. It will be understood that each block of the flowchart illustrations and/or block diagrams, and combinations of blocks in the flowchart illustrations and/or block diagrams, can be implemented by computer program instructions. These computer program instructions may be provided to a processor of a general purpose computer, special purpose computer, or other programmable data processing apparatus to produce a machine, such that the instructions, which execute via the processor of the computer or other programmable data processing apparatus, create means for implementing the functions/acts specified in the flowchart and/or block diagram block or blocks.

[0169] These computer program instructions may also be stored in a computer-readable memory that can direct a computer or other programmable data processing apparatus to function in a particular manner, such that the instructions stored in the computer-readable memory produce an article of manufacture including instruction means which implement the function/act specified in the flowchart and/or block diagram block or blocks.

[0170] The computer program instructions may also be loaded onto a computer or other programmable data processing apparatus to cause a series of operational steps to be performed on the computer or other programmable apparatus to produce a computer implemented process such that the instructions which execute on the computer or other programmable apparatus provide steps for implementing the functions/acts specified in the flowchart and/or block diagram block or blocks.

[0171] The flowcharts and schematic diagrams of the figures illustrate the architecture, functionality, and/or operations of some embodiments of methods, systems, devices and computer program products. In this regard, each block may represent a module, segment, or portion of code, which comprises one or more executable instructions for implementing the specified logical function(s). It should also be noted that in other implementations, the function(s) noted in the blocks may occur out of the order noted in the figures. For example, two blocks shown in succession may, in fact, be executed substantially concurrently or the blocks may sometimes be executed in the reverse order, depending on the functionality involved.

[0172] The foregoing is illustrative of the present invention and is not to be construed as limiting thereof. Although a few embodiments of the present invention have been described, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that many modifications are possible in the embodiments without materially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the present invention. Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present invention as defined in the claims. Therefore, it is to be understood that the foregoing is illustrative of the present invention and is not to be construed as limited to the embodiments disclosed herein, and that modifications to the disclosed embodiments, as well as other embodiments, are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims. The present invention is defined by the following claims.

Claims

THAT WHICH IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A method comprising:

receiving a plurality of gemstone values corresponding to a cut gemstone into a graphical user interface of a mobile terminal;

computing at least one angle corresponding to the cut gemstone using at least one of the plurality of gemstone values; and

displaying a value of the at least one angle to a mobile device user on a display of a mobile device,

wherein at least one of receiving the plurality of gemstone values, computing the at least one angle and displaying the value is using at least one processor.

2. The method according to Claim 1, wherein receiving the plurality of gemstone values comprises receiving at least one of the plurality of gemstone values from a user via a graphical user interface on the mobile device.

3. The method according to Claim 1 , wherein receiving the plurality of gemstone values comprises:

receiving a unique identifier that corresponds to the cut gemstone via the graphical user interface;

sending a request for data corresponding to the cut gemstone that is associated with the unique identifier; and

receiving at least one of the plurality of gemstone values responsive to sending the request for data.

4. The method according to Claim 1, wherein the plurality of gemstone values include dimension values of the cut gemstone.

5. The method according to Claim 4, wherein the dimension values include table width, crown height and/or pavilion depth.

6. The method according to Claim 1 , wherein computing the at least one angle is performed by at least one processor in the mobile device.

7. The method according to Claim 1, wherein the at least one angle includes a crown angle and a pavilion angle.

8. The method according to Claim 1, further comprising generating a graphical user interface in the mobile device that is operable to receive the plurality of gemstone values and to display the at least one angle.

9. A mobile device program product that comprises a computer-readable medium having executable computer-readable program code therein, the computer- readable program code being configured to implement the method of Claim 1.

10. A mobile terminal graphical user interface (GUI), the GUI comprising: an input portion that is configured to receive a plurality of values

corresponding to physical properties of a cut gemstone; and

an output portion that is configured to display output data corresponding to computed dimensional data corresponding to the cut gemstone,

wherein at least one of the input portion and the output portion is generated using at least one processor and displayed using at least one display.

11. The GUI according to Claim 10, wherein the input portion comprises a dimensional data entry portion that is configured to receive, from a mobile terminal user, dimensional data corresponding to the cut gemstone.

12. The GUI according to Claim 11, wherein the dimensional data includes at least one of a table width, a crown height and a pavilion depth.

13. The GUI according to Claim 10, wherein the input portion comprises a gemstone identifier data entry portion that is configured to receive a gemstone identifier that is associated with a specific cut gemstone.

14. The GUI according to Claim 13, wherein the gemstone identifier data entry portion comprises a user input that, when actuated, causes an image capture component of the mobile terminal to capture an image corresponding to the gemstone identifier.

15. The GUI according to Claim 13, wherein the gemstone identifier data entry portion comprises at least one of a numeric interface or an alphanumeric interface that is configured to receive the gemstone identifier from the mobile terminal user.

16. The GUI according to Claim 10, wherein the output portion includes at least one input data display fields that is configured to display at least one data value that is received via the input portion.

17. The GUI according to Claim 10, wherein the output portion includes a graphic display portion that is configured to display a gemstone profile image that corresponds to dimensional data of the cut gemstone.

18. The GUI according to Claim 10, wherein the output portion includes a graphic display portion that is configured to display a default gemstone profile image exclusive of dimensional data of the cut gemstone.

19. The GUI according to Claim 10, further comprising a get angle actuator that is configured to cause at least one angle corresponding to the cut gemstone to be estimated based on dimensional data corresponding to the cut gemstone that is received via the input portion.

20. The GUI according to Claim 19, wherein the output portion includes an angle value display field that is configured to display a value of the at least one angle of the cut gemstone.

21. A computer program product comprising a computer readable storage medium having computer readable program code embodied therein, the computer readable program code that is configured to generate the mobile terminal GUI corresponding to Claim 10.

22. A mobile terminal, the mobile terminal comprising: a user interface that is configured to display the mobile terminal GUI corresponding to Claim 10.