#gemystique
Examining surface reaching breaks-fractures in an emerald from Swat, Pakistan for this week’s microscopemonday. Observing surface reaching breaks under varying illumination environments is a reliable method to observe the actual extent of these breaks and fractures
Often, they fully reveal their spread and depth while being observed under varying illumination environments (oblique-fiberoptic, horizontal-fiberoptic to even overhead reflective) while a lot could remain hidden if they were to be examined under darkfield illumination only
As always, equally important as the lighting techniques applied is the ability to maneuver the stone while examining its inclusions. Rocking and tilting the stone under the correct lighting conditions can reveal important information on even something as innocuous and trivial as a simple surface reaching break
Sheikh Fahad Abbas – GIA GG, AJP
Founder & Owner – Gemystique®
