Colour varieties of gems – where to set the boundary?
In theory it is simple: a gemstone is a mineral formed in nature by geological processes and, as such, it has a mineralogical name that is scientifically defined and accepted by th
Purple to bluish grey chalcedony from Ethiopia
In the past 15 years, Ethiopia has repeatedly gained attention for a variety of new gem finds. In 2008, a large deposit of white play-of-colour opal was found (Rondeau et al., 2010
Applications of Python for Spectroscopic Data Processing, Analysis and Machine Learning Modeling in Gemmology
Python, a powerful programming tool with extensive scientific computing capabilities, is being increasingly utilized in gemmological science. It is particularly well-suited for pro
Effects of weathering on FTIR spectra and origin traceability of archaeological amber: The case of the Han Tomb of Haihun Marquis, China
Amber (fossil resin), known as the “capsule of time and space”, which is a complex biogenic polymer originated from ancient plants resin from different geological periods [1].
Mapping underground rivers at the Copeton Diamond Field, New South Wales, Australia. Following these “deep leads” to further riches
In Australia’s ‘New England’, early gold and tin explorers discovered diamonds in their sluice boxes without realising their significance, but by the 1890s the Copeton-Bingar
Rose Quartz: Journey Into the Nano-Jungle
Massive rose quartz is a readily available mineral ranging in colour from pink to salmon- or lavender-pink (Figure 1). Given its popularity in the market, it might be assumed that
Effects of Gamma Irradiation on Ruby and Pink Sapphire and Potential Detection Methods in Gem Labs
Gamma irradiation is a non-destructive and non-invasive treatment method used to enhance the colour and aesthetic appeal of gemstones, such as diamond, topaz, quartz, and sapphire.
Treated jadeite-jade: Unusually bright fancy colours
Jadeite-jade is a precious ornamental stone that has been valued as the topmost decorative stone and has been used in jewelry, carvings, and other ornamental objects by many cultur
Violet Diamonds from Argyle: New Insights into the Cause of their Unique Color
Until its recent closure, the Argyle mine in Australia has been the only source of uniquely colored violet diamonds produced during the 35 years of its operation. These diamonds th
Opal stability: a step toward detection
Opal is a gem of captivating beauty that stems from its complex microscopic structure composed mainly of silica. In the most striking specimens, the light diffraction from a three-