#gemystique
A very interesting examination for this weeks microscopemonday. Looking at a considerably large mineral inclusion trapped within a Pakistani Aquamarine. While there are several known mineral inclusions associated with Pakistani aquamarine, Feldspar, Quartz, Mica in various forms like Muscovite etc. white to transparent and colorless Albite crystals, just to name a few, this particular inclusion could not be identified with standard gemological examination alone. Often, there are various possibilities for one guest mineral and in spite of some clues, one should always be circumspect while giving identity calls without adequate gemological evidence.
As beautiful as the inclusion itself is, the photomicrographs however are taken with the intention to capture the very interesting growth conditions around it. The area beneath the large crystal has eye visible strain/stress and tension. Accompanied by small mineral xtls, the photomicrographs capture the depth of these stressful growth conditions caused by the large mineral inclusion, from different angles and positions. The disruption and continuation in the growth process of the host mineral and the resulting anomalies paint a fascinating picture. Almost as if a large meteoroid traveling through space is followed by its long debris tail.
While being observed from one particular angle the strain/growth patterns resemble chevron growth found in hydrothermal synthetic beryl. A truly intriguing and beguiling observation.
Sheikh Fahad Abbas – GIA GG, AJP
Founder & Owner – Gemystique®
