ED-XRF
Energy Dispersive X-Ray Fluorescence spectrometers, irradiate the gemstone with X-rays. This process excites the atoms within the gem to jump to a higher state of energy. In the relaxation process, the elements will fluoresce. It is the measurement of the various fluorescing X-rays that determine what elements are contained in the test item.
Typical tests on this equipment would be, detection of lead in ruby, copper in tourmaline, aids in geographic determinations, and other research. As an example see the raw XRF chart on qualifying extra-terrestrial peridot.
FTIR
Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) This equipment generates a broad infrared energy source that can either reflect or transmit through a gemstone. It is one of the main work horses for Gemological laboratories. The results are seen in the form of absorptions or emissions. Tests can make determinations for various treatments in colored stones and diamonds.
Whether polymer treatments in jades and emeralds, thermal enhancement in corundum, diamond typing, or gem synthesis, the FTIR gives clear indicators. Review this paper for an overview of the potential of FTIR.
Raman 785 and 532
Raman technology typically uses a laser to excite molecular vibration. We use the 785 nm laser unit for focusing in on identifying inclusions within gemstones.
In the Raman mode, the MAGI Labs GemmoRaman 532-SG equipment can render clear identification of most all gems and minerals in existence. When looking at the extended or photo-luminescent (PL) range, this equipment is superb in displaying many diagnostic features in a wide assortment of gemstones.
Shortwave spectroscopy
Utilizing a high energy source, the 190 to 400 nanometer range is examined on a UV spectrometer.
This area can aid in discovery of geographic origin indicators as well as determining some diamond types.
UV-vis-NIR
Think of the UV-Vis-NIR spectrometer as a mechanical (digital) version of your spectroscope. With high sensitivity it also has an extended range including detecting of the near infrared and ultra-violet energies.
Results are seen as Absorptions and/or Transmission and can be very helpful in establishing the existence of various chromophores or elements. While we have several visible spectrometers, the Gemmo-Sphere is our equipment of choice.
EXA
EXA uses advanced spectroscopy for detecting natural diamonds. EXA detects natural diamond and many other types of gem materials by analyzing it’s photoluminescence spectrum. The samples are illuminated with strong longwave ultraviolet light (LWUV).
To read more about the EXA and its uses, visit the GemmoRaman website.
