How to differentiate between untreated tenebrescent scapolite and Irradiated tenebrescent scapolite . Case for study
Examination of Untreated Tenebrescent Scapolite and comparison with (newly) irradiated Tenebrescent Scapolite By Hamid Usman Khattak (HUK)-Accredited Gemologist Introduction Tenebrescence, also known as reversible photochromism, is the ability of minerals to change colour when exposed to sunlight. The effect can be repeated for an unlimited or unspecified period of time, but is destroyed by heating. Tenebrescent Scapolite was first found in Badakshan , province ofAfghanistan in 2005. This unique colorless material is mined near the Hackmanite deposits and changes an aquamarine colorwhen exposed to LW/SW UV light. This change of color is depending upon the time it has exposed to Ultra violet light. This change of color is not permanent it faded gradually almost in 30 seconds (Depending the lighting condition). Note: In tungsten light tenebrescent scapolite faded its color very quickly but in fluorescent light the change in color is slowly. ...