On 12 March 2026, at the VNUHCM–University of Science (HCMUS), researcher Lê Ngọc Năng (2023–2026 cohort) successfully defended his doctoral dissertation at the institutional level. The research, titled “Mineralogical, Gemmological Characteristics and Origin of Gemstones Associated with Basalts in Southeast Viet Nam,” was conducted under the academic supervision of Associate Professor Phạm Trung Hiếu.

The dissertation focuses on the mineralogical and gemmological properties, as well as the origins, of various gemstones associated with Cenozoic basalt formations widely distributed across Southeast Viet Nam. By integrating geological, petrological, and geochemical methodologies with advanced gemmological and spectroscopic analytical techniques, the study identified seven types of minerals suitable for use as gemstones: sapphire, zircon, pyrope (garnet), anorthoclase (alkali feldspar), augite, brown peridot, and opal.

Findings indicate that gemstones within this region generally exhibit mineralogical and gemmological characteristics consistent with global records. Nevertheless, several notable distinctions were identified, contributing new scientific data and refining the criteria for the identification and quality assessment of basalt-related gemstones in Viet Nam.

Geochemical analysis and geological evidence suggest that the majority of these gem minerals did not crystallise directly from basaltic magma (with the exception of opal). Instead, the basalt primarily served as a medium for transporting and hosting minerals that had previously formed from diverse sources, such as syenite, peridotite, or deep-seated magmas. This discovery clarifies the mechanisms underlying the formation and distribution of basalt-associated gemstones in the Southeast region.

Gemmological quality assessments revealed that the zircon, pyrope, anorthoclase, and augite samples are of high quality, whereas the sapphire, brown peridot, and opal range from medium to low quality. Although the potential for commercial extraction remains uncertain at present, these gemstones possess significant scientific value. Furthermore, the study highlights prospective opportunities for exploitation through geo-heritage and geo-tourism in the future.

Throughout the doctoral programme, researcher Lê Ngọc Năng published seven scientific papers in prestigious national and international journals, demonstrating rigorous academic discipline and a profound research capacity within the fields of geology and gemmology.

Based on the successful defence and established academic criteria, the Board resolved to confer the degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Geology upon researcher Lê Ngọc Năng.

Image credit: Office of Graduate Studies