Gemology Hub | Gemstone & Mineral Identification Guides

  Fluorescence, Phosphorescence, Tenebrescent Fluorescence Fluorescence is the phenomenon where a substance absorbs electromagnetic radiation, usually in the form of ultraviolet (UV) light, and then emits visible light. The emitted light has a longer wavelength and lower energy than the absorbed light. This process is instantaneous and stops as soon as the excitation source is removed. Phosphorescence Phosphorescence is similar to fluorescence, but with a key difference. In phosphorescence, the emitted light continues to be emitted even after the excitation source is removed. This is known as "afterglow." The delay in emission is due to the presence of certain materials called phosphors, which store the absorbed energy temporarily and release it slowly over time. Tenebrescent Tenebrescence, also known as reversible photochromism, is a property of certain materials that can change their color or opacity when exposed to specific wavelengths of light. These materials undergo a r...

Natural Sapphire Inclusions There are several types of inclusions in natural sapphires. • Needles. These are mineral inclusions that are long and thin. • Crystals / Minerals These are bright or dark crystals that have become trapped within the gemstone. • Feathers. These tiny inclusions resemble wisps or feathers and are usually pale in colour. • Fingerprints  • Color zoning Needles like inclusions in Sapphire Needles like inclusions and fingerprint in Sapphire Needles like inclusions in Sapphire Long & Short Needles like inclusions in Sapphire Needles like inclusions in Sapphire

Glass Filled Corundum Identification Since the 1980s, silica glass has been widely used to fix voids and fractures in rubies. Cavity filling was first seen and documented in 1984. (Kane, 1984). This filling improved the face-up appearance of the stones and may have added weight, but it was also easily detectable under magnification. Identification Features of Glass filled corundum: when you see glass filled corundum through the gemological microscope. There are two main features in glass filled corundum will be observed: Air bubbles Blue flash effect In the pictures below you will observe the bluish fleshes and a lot of air bubbles. So the identification of the glass filled / composite corundum / hybrid corundum is too easy. It is not necessary that you have an expensive gemological microscope but the same scene can also be viewed in 10x loupe / eyeglass / magnifying glass which price is only a few dollars. Inclusions in Glass Filled rubies  Glass Filled Ruby Air bubbles and blui...

What is glass filled ruby? Glass filled ruby is a type of ruby gemstone that has been treated with lead glass to enhance its overall appearance and color. This treatment helps improve the clarity and vibrancy of the stone. Glass filled ruby is a popular choice for those looking for an affordable alternative to natural rubies. The lead glass filling masks any imperfections or fractures within the stone, giving it a smoother and more lustrous look. However, it is important to note that the treatment is not considered permanent and the stone may require special care to maintain its brilliance. How to identify glass filled ruby? One way to identify a glass filled ruby is by examining it closely under magnification. Look for telltale signs of glass filling, such as air bubbles, swirling patterns, or cracks. Additionally, glass filled rubies may have a higher refractive index and lower hardness compared to natural rubies. To identify glass filled ruby, carefully inspect it under magnificatio...

  Diamonds: Nature's Perfect Creations Diamonds have always fascinated people with their unparalleled beauty and rarity. In this blog, we will explore the mesmerizing world of diamonds and uncover some of their hidden secrets. The Astonishing Variety of Diamonds As we delve into the world of diamonds, we are introduced to an incredible assortment of shapes and colors. The largest diamond on display here is a massive 240 carat stone, although its shape may not be as remarkable. However, as we explore further, we discover diamonds in various captivating shapes. From perfect octahedrons to beautiful cubes, each diamond tells its own unique story. Unveiling the Hidden Secrets Nature has a way of creating wonders that leave us in awe. It is truly breathtaking to witness how diamonds, even in their raw, uncut form, display such geometric perfection. The presence of impurities can give diamonds different colors, ranging from vibrant yellow to striking purple. Some diamonds even ...

Some minerals look so unreal that people assume the photos are edited. They are not. Nature has been designing strange, beautiful crystals for millions of years. 1. Bismuth Its stair-step crystals can glow in rainbow colors. The color is a thin oxide layer created when the metal cools in air—not a gemstone treatment. 2. Wulfenite Orange, honey-like square plates make wulfenite look almost digital. Collectors love its bold shape, but it is soft and should be handled carefully. 3. Vanadinite Bright red hexagonal crystals can resemble tiny candy capsules. This lead mineral is a showpiece, not a stone for jewelry. 4. Azurite Its electric blue color comes from copper. In some specimens, azurite slowly alters to green malachite—one mineral literally changing its look over time. 5. Labradorite Turn a good specimen and flashes of blue, green, gold, or orange appear. This optical effect is called labradorescence. 6. Rhodochrosite Pink bands can look painted by hand. The best pieces prove that g...