Please can someone help me identify my gemstones?

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Barbra Voltaire, FGG
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Re: Please can someone help me identify my gemstones?

Post by Barbra Voltaire, FGG »

Hello and thanks for posting.
It is usually impossible to identify an unknown by looking at a picture. Actually it's a bit irresponsible.

One must either conduct tests themselves or be supplied with test results in order to rule out possibilities.

Looking at your test results:
Forget about using the diamond tester for anything except diamonds.

The dichroscope indicates that the stone is doubly refractive.

Review our post on the polariscope here. It will help you clearly define what you see:
https://www.gemologyproject.com/wiki/in ... olariscope

I have used refractometers successfully with mounted stones.
https://www.gemologyproject.com/wiki/in ... ractometer

With all instruments and tools the most important thing is learning how to properly use them and properly interpret the results.

Report back.
1bwana1
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Re: Please can someone help me identify my gemstones?

Post by 1bwana1 »

Refractometers are designed to be used on mounted stone set in prongs. The glass prism is raised so that the prongs have clearance when the stone is in contact with the flat surface of the prism. This of course works only if the setting allows it.

The refractometer is an essential gem ID instrument. If you want to do identification, get one and learn to use it properly. Site ID is a guess at best, and doing so from a picture is unprofessional.
Azard_faza
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Re: Please can someone help me identify my gemstones?

Post by Azard_faza »

It's hard to find exactly. The photo is not clear enough
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Barbra Voltaire, FGG
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Re: Please can someone help me identify my gemstones?

Post by Barbra Voltaire, FGG »

Hi Azard_faza.

Even it the pic was crystal clear, I wouldn't venture to guess on ID without some test results.
Although the GIA advises to inspect an unknown visually and then perform optic tests, I do the opposite. Test first, look after.

Often, one can be steered in the wrong direction by starting with a visual identification. IMO.
ArmoniaGems
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Re: Please can someone help me identify my gemstones?

Post by ArmoniaGems »

Hi Barbra

I'd feel happy to help you identify your gemstone. To get a better ideaI’d love to help you identify your gemstones. Could you please share a clear photo or two of the stones? Even a simple description of their color, shape, and where you got them can help a lot.

The more details you provide, the easier it will be for us to give you a good idea of what they might be.

Looking forward to seeing your stones!
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Barbra Voltaire, FGG
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Re: Please can someone help me identify my gemstones?

Post by Barbra Voltaire, FGG »

Oh, dear. Thank you for your kind offer, but as it stands I am usually able to identify most anything which looks like a gem. I rely more on test results than visual observations with pictures.

It has been my experience that one can hamper their ability to rely on test results when they believe they have made a positive identification visually.
I use my instruments first.
ArmoniaGems
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Re: Please can someone help me identify my gemstones?

Post by ArmoniaGems »

Absolutely! To help you identify your gemstones, you can follow these steps:

1. Visual Examination
Color: Note the colors present in the stone.
Clarity: Check for internal inclusions or imperfections.
Cut and Shape: Observe the shape and cut of the gemstone.
2. Hardness Test
Use the Mohs scale of mineral hardness to scratch the stone with objects of known hardness (such as a fingernail, copper coin, glass, etc.).
3. Weight and Density
Weigh the stone and compare it to known gemstones of similar size.
If you have the equipment (such as a scale and water), a density test can be helpful.
4. Refractive Index
If you have a refractometer, this can be a definitive way to determine the gemstone's identity.
5. Light Tests
Transmission: Hold the stone up to a light source. Is it transparent, translucent, or opaque?
Spectroscope: A handheld spectroscope can show you the absorption spectrum, which can be unique to certain gemstones.
6. Professional Evaluation
If you are unsure, consider taking your gemstones to a gemologist or professional jeweler for analysis.
Required Information
If you can describe the gemstones in detail—such as color, size, any markings, or unique characteristics—I can help you narrow down the possibilities even further!
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