The Spectrolaser Target was originally developed by Laser Analysis Technologies Pty Ltd (LAT) to aid gemologists in gem classification. It has since found numerous other applications in material classification and process control.

In gemstone classification it has found application in such institutions as the Gem and Jewelry Institute of Thailand where the instrument is used to classify gemstones from around the world. In this instance the instrument is used to identify beryllium doping of corundum (sapphire) that changes a particular stone's colour and thereby significantly (and artificially) increase the gem's value.

To aid gemstone classification LAT has replaced the infra-red 1064nm Nd:YAG laser typically used in Spectrolaser instruments with an ultraviolet 355nm frequency tripled Nd:YAG laser.

The UV laser produces a smaller focal point and is only absorbed at the very surface of the gem thereby producing an inconsequentially small area of laser damage. Also Included in the Spectrolaser Target is a cross-hair targeting camera system and a precisely adjustable mounting assembly that enables quick and easy positioning of the laser strike-point on the gemstone.

The result is minimal gem damage during the analysis process, such as the laser mark shown right on the girdle of a sapphire (at 60x magnification). This particular laser crater is approximately 50 microns in diameter and was a result of five laser pulses at full laser power. Using one laser pulse an operator can reduce the laser mark to virtually imperceptible levels while still achieving the elemental analysis. All Spectrolasers have computer controlled laser power for easy operation.
	Applications of the instrument in gemmology are widespread. For example, the identification of beryllium treated sapphire is easily accomplished with the Spectrolaser Target by monitoring the distinctive Be emission at 313.106 nm. Shown left is the comparison between treated and un-treated sapphire where the Be treatment is easily identified.
Another gemmology application of the Spectrolaser is the identification of coated gemstones. For example, cobalt coating of natural topaz is a means of changing the colour of the stone. Shown right is the comparison of natural and coated topaz where the difference is quite dramatic and distinctive. In addition to qualitative comparisons such as these, quantitative elemental analysis can also be achieved via calibration with standard materials.

An intuitive control interface assists in rapid targeting of the gemstone, element identification, quantification of elemental concentrations, file saving and reporting.

Shown below is the operator view of a gemstone in the instrument. The cross-hairs indicate the position of the laser on the gemstone.