Sometimes, analyzing cabochon gems with a refractometer requires different techniques than those for faceted gems. Learn these cabochon testing methods.
4 Minute Read
Before learning to test cabochons, be sure to review our article on using a refractometer to determine the RIs of faceted gems. You should be familiar with the instrument, procedures, and testing terminology.
To test a gem with a curved surface:
To get a good spot reading, use the right amount of RI liquid. Your spot should only be two or three scale divisions in length. If it’s more than that, if you have a dark circle around the spot, or if you have a curved cutoff line, you’ve used too much fluid.
It takes practice to learn to…
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Before learning to test cabochons, be sure to review our article on using a refractometer to determine the RIs of faceted gems. You should be familiar with the instrument, procedures, and testing terminology.
To test a gem with a curved surface:
To get a good spot reading, . Your spot should only be two or three scale divisions in length. If it’s more than that, if you have a dark circle around the spot, or if you have a curved cutoff line, you’ve used too much fluid.
It takes practice to learn to…
Sometimes, analyzing cabochon gems with a refractometer requires different techniques than those for faceted gems. Learn these cabochon testing methods.
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