What is a Gem Reflectometer?
What’s the difference between a reflectometer and a refractometer? If you’re interested in studying or buying gems, learn the facts here.
Answer: A refractometer measures a gemstone's refractive index. A reflectometer, sometimes called a jeweler's eye, measures luster, how a gem's surface appears.
What a Reflectometer Can (and Can't) Do
A reflectometer is usually calibrated to tell you what a stone "most likely" is. For example, if you're looking at a ruby, a reflectometer will quickly tell you if the gem is not corundum. However, that is far from what you need for positive gem identification.
Beware of Inaccurate Results
Reflectometers are also notoriously inaccurate. Their accuracy is based on the quality of the facet you are reading. I have had two and they both gave me birefringence readings on the table of a one-carat diamond. You won't find a flatter or better polished table than that. And diamonds have no birefringence!
Donald Clark, CSM IMG
International Gem Society
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