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 Post subject: sapphire vs topaz
PostPosted: Sun Sep 21, 2008 4:26 pm 
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Joined: Fri Sep 19, 2008 9:36 am
Posts: 5
Location: Maputo
what is the most easy way to diferenciate a Sapphire from a Topaz?? With no doubts!


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PostPosted: Sun Sep 21, 2008 4:44 pm 
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Joined: Sun Oct 16, 2005 12:22 pm
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Location: San Francisco
What tools do you have at your disposal?

ImageSimple tests to determine the refractive index, optic character, specific gravity and observation of the nature of inclusions and fracture vs. cleavage should all help you determine the identity.


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 Post subject: sapphire vs topaz
PostPosted: Sun Sep 21, 2008 4:56 pm 
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Joined: Fri Sep 19, 2008 9:36 am
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Location: Maputo
Barbara

Tks for yor reply.
As I said, we are begginng. We are looking for a suplier of the basic tools. In Mozambique there is no one.

We have to send the stones to the local university and ave them assayed.
They identified our stones as Sapphires.

We aso are looking fora marketing chanel in the US. I just send yu an email about this.
Filipe


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PostPosted: Sun Sep 21, 2008 7:33 pm 
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Gee, where to start.:(

I don't want to be too negative, but please be aware that their are gemological experts whose families have been in the gem business for several generations, with well established international contacts, currently struggling in this economy.

Are you also aware that the great majority of sapphire mined is sold by the ton to be used as abrasives?

I'm sorry, but what makes you feel qualified to venture out looking for an international market to sell something you know next to nothing about? You can not even identify your product without help....Do you have an MBA or some other qualification to pursue this? I'd really think this through if I were you.


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PostPosted: Mon Sep 22, 2008 12:09 am 
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Joined: Mon May 14, 2007 11:00 am
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Location: Monterey, CA
If the stones are faceted, squeeze them between your fingers. Topaz will feel slippery.

If it is a piece of rough, hit it with a hammer. Topaz will produce a smooth flat cleavage while sapphire will show a conchoidal fracture.


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PostPosted: Mon Sep 29, 2008 12:38 pm 
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Joined: Wed Apr 25, 2007 9:29 am
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Location: Bangkok
You are so close to South Africa. Would it not be easier for you to start making contacts with S.A. gem dealers before you venture out into unknown and presently difficult territory?

Ursula


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