Rare Finds for Gemstone Experts: Exceptional Internal Features Worthy of Note for Gemmologists
In the fascinating world of gemstones, inclusions - tiny foreign objects or minerals trapped within the stone - often serve as unique identifiers of their origin. These minute features can either enhance or diminish a gemstone's value, depending on their rarity, visibility, and collector interest.
Take, for example, emeralds, which are commonly adorned with natural inclusions known as "jardin." These patterns, resembling foliage, are not only typical but also add to the stone's character and authenticity. On the other hand, the rarest emeralds boast minimal inclusions, fetching high prices due to their scarcity.
Grandidierite, a rare blue-green silicate from Madagascar, displays strong pleochroism, showing different colours from different angles. Transparent specimens are extremely scarce, and even visible inclusions can be found in these rare stones. Their rarity and unique optical properties significantly increase their value.
Kornerupine, an emerald-like green gem, may have inclusions that contribute to its cleavage and structural vulnerabilities. Larger, inclusion-free, and intact stones are particularly valuable.
In some cases, inclusions can be toxic, such as in gaspeite, a rare green gemstone containing nickel that affects handling due to toxicity but has specific collector appeal.
Inclusions can provide clues about a gemstone's geographical origin, as certain inclusions are characteristic of specific mines or regions. They also reflect the growth environment and conditions, helping gemologists verify natural origin versus synthetic or treated stones.
Kashmir sapphires, renowned for their fine quality, are no exception. Tourmaline crystals, about 3 mm wide, are known to occur near the site where sapphires have been recovered in Kashmir. Similarly, tourmaline inclusions are found in these sapphires.
Other gemstones, like opal, can preserve fossils, including tree roots and twigs. A rare piece of precious opal containing a well-preserved immature cicada was found in Indonesia.
The presence of inclusions, especially eye-visible ones, can significantly impact the quality and value of a near-white diamond. Rare inclusions like rutile, coesite, and blue kyanite are found in diamonds.
In some instances, inclusions can be extraordinary discoveries. The discovery of a feathered tail in Myanmar amber is considered one of the rarest inclusions in a gem material. Remains of land animals, such as dinosaurs, mammals, and pterosaurs, have also been discovered in amber from various locations, including the Baltic, Dominica, and Mexico.
The internal world of gemstones is a field of study for gemmologists, who delve into the mysteries hidden within these beautiful, precious stones. Some inclusions are desirable because they prove the natural origin of a stone, provide evidence of treatment, or help decide its geographical origin.
In conclusion, inclusions in gemstones offer a fascinating glimpse into their origins, growth, and unique characteristics. Whether they enhance or diminish a gemstone's value, these minute features add to the allure and mystery of these precious gems.
- In the realm of gemmology, research often reveals that inclusions in diamonds can significantly impact their quality and value, with rare ones like rutile, coesite, and blue kyanite being particularly noteworthy.
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