Beck Wavelength GIA Spectrometer

[dchallener]

So I just bought this:


It is a GIA brand spectrometer (with manual, which is sort of like a course on how to use it.)
anyone ever use one of these? It really looks cool. We now have 13 Raman spectrometers, suitable for identifying minerals, 3 refractometers, a specific gravity measuring device, 2 nice GIA scopes, and am hoping to get my NIR spectrometer working sometime soon. Also a master "color" set. I don't think I will ever get an XRF or XRD or a mass spectrometer or an SEM (the first two require radioactive elements and the last two are just too big.) I also have a Mark 1 eyeball. So - what am I missing?

[Barbra Voltaire, FGG]

I've got one of those Beck Spectroscopes.
Would it be a bother to send me a copy of the manual?

[dchallener]

No problem. There are actually 3 different things that came with it. One is a general "course" on spectroscopy, one is a manual for the scope itself, and one is a book about using them. Can't copy the book, of course.

[Barbra Voltaire, FGG]

What, no book?

Just kidding.


Thanks.

[dchallener]

Well, following the instructions that came with it ---- it WORKS!! Holy cow! And doing more reading, it appears that you can distinguish a number of the synthetics from natural ruby using it. See: http://www.gemlab.co.uk./

I am impressed. Looks like it will be useful.

[Barbra Voltaire, FGG]

OK, fine. I'll bring the gizmo upstairs and check it out.

[Alan F.]

I would concur, those wavelength Beck spectroscopes are really nice and very well made. One thing that is worth doing, is making an adjustment tool for it. As you look at the adjustment screw, you will notice that there is an adjustment screw, and round it a slotted locknut. Find (or make) a screwdriver to fit the adjustment screw, get a piece of steel the same size as the locknut, drill a hole through it the size of the screwdriver and file the end to fit the slot in the locknut. Fit handles so they can be held firmly and you are ready to make the most minute adjustments to the scale.

[dchallener]

Do you have a picture? I got lost about half way through.....

[Alan F.]

PM me your address and I'll put a sketch in the post, I don't have the technology to put it on here (I usually get Wilson in Texas to put things of for me!).

[Barbra Voltaire, FGG]

Alan, I'll get anything you want to post up for you.
I know some people who know some people.
bav@gemologyonline.com

[Alan F.]

One point here, the spectrometer appears to be on backwards. The eyepiece is over the light source and the slit, which is where the light should enter, is away from the light and the stone tweezers.

[dchallener]

True, Alan - the picture is from who I bought it from. Fortunately it came with instructions, and I have it set up correctly for use.

[Alan F.]

The instructions and associated diagrams of how to make an adjustment tool are on their way to Barbra and she will put them on for me. In return could I ask for a copy of the instructions in case I am missing out on anything? P.M. them to me or if that is difficult I'll P.M. you my address and you can snail mail them to me.

[Barbra Voltaire, FGG]

You got it.

[Bill Hanneman]

Be careful not to burn yourself.