Gemstone Windows and Dark Patches: What to Look for in a Cut Gem

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AI-generated educational illustration. Conceptual only; not a photograph of an actual specimen or location. A coloured gem may have a pale, see-through centre or areas that look almost black. Both affect its appearance, but they do not have the same cause. What is a window? A window is an area where light passes through the gem instead of being returned towards the viewer. You may see the background through it, especially near the centre. Cutting angles and the material's refractive index—how it bends light—help determine whether this happens. There is no single ideal depth for every gemstone. Why dark patches need a closer look Darkness can have several causes. The material may absorb a lot of light. Some facets may reflect dark surroundings or the observer. Extinction is another cause, involving light that is not returned to the viewer after internal reflection. For that reason, calling every black patch “extinction” can be misleading. A simple viewing routine Look at the gem fac...

Understanding the Impact of Climate Change on Heat Waves

Climate Change and Heat Waves - Urgent Action Needed

Discover how climate change is fueling deadly heat waves worldwide, and what you can do to protect yourself and others. Insights from Adam, a climate scientist, shed light on the urgency of addressing this global crisis.

Recent events underscore the critical need for immediate attention to the escalating impact of heat waves on communities globally.

Unprecedented Heat Waves

As summer grips the Northern Hemisphere, extreme heat is already taking a toll on people worldwide. From tragic incidents in Mecca to heat domes affecting millions, the severity and frequency of heat waves are alarming.

Climate Change and Heat Waves

Learn how climate change intensifies heat waves, making them more lethal and widespread. The burning of fossil fuels releases greenhouse gases, elevating temperatures and amplifying the occurrence of extreme heat events.

Protecting Ourselves

Simple measures like staying hydrated and seeking cool shelter can help mitigate heat wave risks. However, vulnerable populations face heightened dangers. Education, infrastructure improvements, and community support are vital for their protection.

Take Immediate Action

Reducing greenhouse gas emissions is crucial in combating the escalating threats of heat waves. Urgent action is imperative to curb the devastating impacts of climate change and safeguard our planet's future.

Stay informed, stay safe, and take action to address the pressing challenges posed by climate change and heat waves.

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