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inclusions

What is a Polariscope?

The polariscope is one of gemology’s simplest and most useful tools. With a little practice and our three-part polariscope guide, you’ll…

Using the Dichroscope

A dichroscope is one of the most useful instruments a gemologist can have. Its primary purpose is to determine the pleochroism of a gem. This can…

Gemstone Refraction Liquids

Gemologists use liquids with high refractive indices (RI) to ascertain gemstone RIs and, thus, help identify and distinguish them. In addition,…

Optical Properties of Gemstones

We tend to take light for granted. It’s such a common thing we experience every day. Rarely do we think of the scientific definition of light…

Using the Gem Microscope

Sometimes, microscopic inclusions and color banding are the only way to distinguish natural from synthetic gems. This makes the microscope an…

Essential Tools for Gemology

Gemology involves studying the optical and physical properties that make gems such unique little treasures. Gem identification involves analyzing…