#gemystique
Examining some more Swat Emeralds for this weeks microscopemonday and observing more from their beautiful microworld of inclusions. Never a dull moment with emerald inclusions, especially with Swat emeralds. So much happening simultaneously that one can easily be overwhelmed and lose focus of how interesting each individual inclusion really is
The four captured photomicrographs display a wide range of inclusions typically associated with emeralds from the Swat Valley in Pakistan. From strong color zoning to partially healed fissures, various different mineral inclusions that vary in sizes from relatively large to very small and minute, found both individually and in large clusters (refer to the previous post for more information on small mineral inclusions found in clusters) to multiphase inclusions and dark magnetite and graphite inclusions, Swat emeralds sure do pack a powerful gemological punch!
When it comes to gemological properties, emeralds from this region have relatively higher RI and SG values compared to emeralds from other regions. The trapiche like emeralds have an even higher value than the normal ones. A detailed analysis conducted by Hongshu Guo, Xiaoyan Yu, Yuyu Zheng, Zhulin Sun, and Miro Fei-Yeung Ng in “Inclusion and Trace Element Characteristics of Emeralds from Swat Valley, Pakistan” reveals that these high RI and SG values can be attributed to the rich alkali metal contents found in Swat emeralds
Another interesting feature is when being observed through a Chelsea Filter, Swat emeralds may have a very strong Red-Pinkish to absolutely no reaction whatsoever
Sheikh Fahad Abbas – GIA GG, AJP
Founder & Owner – Gemystique®
