| abstract |
A computerized trading system provides centralized storage of images of gemstones and enables remote capture, access, and display of these images. A central unit (10) maintains a database of the images of an inventory of gemstones, together with related information, such as weight, color, clarity, and price for each gemstone. One or more remote capture units (20) (located for example at facilities where gems are cut and polished, or at wholesaler facilities) each have a camera (22) for capturing images of gemstones, and a keyboard (23) or other means for entry of related information on each gemstone. This data is relayed to the central unit (10) by a telecommunications link or by means or removable magnetic or optical media (33). The images and related data stored at the central unit (10) can be accessed and displayed via telecommunications link by a number of remote display units (30). In the preferred embodiment, each display unit (30) can also be used by buyers to place orders for gemstones with the central unit (10). |