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The optical characteristics and properties of gemstones often provide the fastest and best methods of identification. A certain amount of theory is necessary as optical principles determine cutting methods, gemstone attributes and the function of gem testing instruments.... (1994) Complete Story
This very readable book represents the accumulated wisdom and experience of a lifetime in the field, and especially a life committed to examining and buying gemstones, as well as selling them. The view is unique, and rich with examples and deep background information. In fact the view is different than any other book in the field. It is eminently practical and deals with the skills of connnoissiourship,
that is how to really look at and see a gem, what the subtleties and conventions are.... (2004) Complete Story
This is an exciting era for gemologists. High-tech analytical techniques now make it possible to identify trace elements, treatments, and origins of colored stones that could only be guessed at decades ago. For example, when the gem world was rocked last fall by mysterious, processed orange sapphires coming out of Chanthaburi, the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) relied on two of these high-tech procedures - Laser Ablation Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) and Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry (SIMS) - to discover what elements could be causing the surface color.... (2002) Complete Story
The most widely-used gemstone exploration techniques today are ground-penetrating radar, known as GPR; trace-element analysis, which involves seeking signature elements as clues to where gems may lie; and use of a device called a 'terra thumper,' which identifies differences in the structure of the host rock through seismic analysis. GPR has proven useful in providing subsurface mapping of potential gem-bearing pockets, or 'vugs,' but the readings can be confused by moisture in the ground, and they can't separate gem-bearing pockets from the non-gem-bearing ones.... (2002) Complete Story
