Hobbies And Interests
Binocular microscope
The binocular microscope is one of the most useful tools for a gemologist. This microscope has a magnification range between 10X and 100-200X, and provides light to the specimen from both the bottom and the side. The higher magnification is used to examine small crevices in the rocks.
Polariscope
A polariscope is an instrument with two polarizing filters, one below the gem and once above it. The filter on top of the gem can be rotated, allowing light to pass through the tool. When a gemologist holds a gem between the two filters, he can observe different patterns of light. This helps gemologists distinguish between two gems that may have similar appearances.
Refractometer
The Refractometer is a tool that helps gemologists observe light refraction, or the way light bends inside a rock or gem. A small drop of liquid is placed on a glass cylinder on top of the instrument while a separate light source illuminates it from underneath. The refractive index (RI) can be read on a gauge on the front of the tool.
Spectroscope
The spectroscope is a tool that may not be used by the average gemologist. Usually priced at several thousand dollars each, it is perhaps one of the most expensive pieces of equipment for examining rocks and gems. This tool measures a rock's light intensity to determine if there are natural or synthetic materials present.
Chelsea filter
The Chelsea filter was originally called the emerald filter because it was used to distinguish between real and fake emeralds. It's also helpful in distinguishing between blue topaz and aquamarine. The Chelsea filter helps a gemologist determine if rock material gets its color from chromium. If a stone appears pink or red through the filter, then it is colored from chromium.
Ultraviolet (UV) light
A UV light source is a helpful tool to use when examining rocks and gems. UV light reveals fluorescent activity in rock materials, which can help a gemologist identify many stones.