Physical Properties of Gemstones
Step 2: Advanced Gemology Lesson 2 Back to syllabus The optical properties of gems attract our eyes and can give a cut stone a unique character. However,…
Step 2: Advanced Gemology Lesson 2 Back to syllabus The optical properties of gems attract our eyes and can give a cut stone a unique character. However,…
A set of color filters is easy to pack for any gem buying trip, but did you know they can be useful in the lab, too? In this article, you’ll learn…
Gemstone identification typically starts with measuring a specimen’s refractive index (RI) and specific gravity (SG). These two tests…
Step 3: Practical Gemology Lesson 3 Back to syllabus Sometimes, refractive index (RI) and specific gravity (SG) readings aren’t enough…
A gemologist can conduct many different tests with a polariscope. Gemstone twinning, dichroism, and internal crystal strain are some of the properties …
The polariscope is one of gemology’s simplest and most useful tools. With a little practice and our three-part polariscope guide, you’ll…
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…
Step 3: Practical Gemology Lesson 6 Back to syllabus Optic character is another useful clue in gem identification. This property exists in every…
Step 3: Practical Gemology Lesson 4 Back to syllabus Gemstone identification is like detective work. You gather clues and eliminate suspects…
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