Gemology Hub | Gemstone & Mineral Identification Guides

Understanding Double Refraction: An Insight into Optical Phenomena Introduction Double refraction  was discovered by Bartolin, who observed that when a ray of unpolarized light is incident on a  calcite crystal , two refracted rays are produced. This phenomenon, known as double refraction, results in two images of a single object. This optical phenomenon is exhibited by several other crystals like  quartz  and  mica . The Phenomenon of Double Refraction When an ink dot on a sheet of paper is viewed through a calcite crystal, two images will be seen. Rotating the crystal...

The Polariscope  Polariscope is a quick and useful tool that will help us to identify the optical nature of a gemstone and conclude whether it is singly or doubly refractive. These gems are known as isotropic or anisotropic respectively. This tool will also identify gems with a polycrystalline nature and on a few occasions, the polariscope can fully identify the gem.   A polariscope can be used on rough, cut, set, and loose gemstones. The only limitation is that the gemstone must have some transparency and that the setting does not inhibit us from viewing any light traveling through the stone. There are two types of polariscope ·        A portable polariscope , which requires an additional light source ·        A bench (Table) polariscope with a built-in light source, which plugs straight into the mains. A polariscope is made up of two polarizing filters .  In the portable polariscope, these filters are fixe...

Gemstone Quiz Gemstone Quiz 1. Which of the following is a defining characteristic of organic gems? A) Created by geological processes B) Formed through natural weathering C) Made by living organisms D) Originates from volcanic activity 2. Which gemstone is considered organic? A) Sapphire B) Coral C) Diamond D) Topaz 3. What is the primary factor that qualifies a material to be considered a gemstone? A) Weight and size B) Beauty C) Age and origin D) Transparency and brilliance 4. Which of the following is a measure of a gemstone's a...

Gemology: The Study of Gemstones Introduction Gemology  is the study of gemstones, including their properties, locations, and origins. It is often studied by individuals in the jewelry business, including business owners, buyers, designers, and appraisers. Antique dealers also study gemology to identify and describe the properties of gems and gemstones. What is a Gemologist? A  gemologist  is someone who can identify gemstones using specialized instruments. What is a Mineral? A  mineral  is defined as a substance that: Is naturally occurring Is inorganic Has a defined chemical composition ...