SOME UNIQUE FEATURES OF GEMSTONES
Posted by slang on June 30, 2007
It would be interesting to note some unique features/phenomena in gemstones which includes the following:
(1) Cats eye- Chatoyancy
A thin fine sharp strip that “moves” when the stone is moved. Looks like the pupil of a cats eyes. This phenomena is seen only when the stone is cabochon polished and best seen under focussed light. The stone is polished so that the stripe is lengthwise. The phenomenon is created due to Rutiles or inclusions.
Stones on which this phenomenon may occur :
- Chrysoberyl, Quartz, Moonstone, Aquamarine, Tourmaline and others.
(2) Star – Asterism
A few ( minimum 4 ) thin fine movable stripes coming out of a common center. This phenomena is seen only when the stone is cabochon polished and best seen under focus light. ( the best is direct sunlight ) The stone is usually polished round. The phenomenon is created due to internal inclusions. The star phenomenon is special and very beautiful and adds to the value of the stone.Star Ruby and Star Sapphire Stones on which this phenomenon may occur :
- Ruby, Sapphire, Rose Quartz, Garnet, Diopside and other.
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