Micro-WorldGems & Gemology, Fall 2024, Vol. 60, No. 3

Fireworks Display in Russian Emerald

Ungkhana Atikarnsakul

Russian emeralds can harbor unique inclusion scenes. Iridescent thin films that lie parallel to the basal pinacoid are considered conclusive evidence of this geographic origin. Microscopic observation of a 1.21 ct faceted emerald revealed multiple planes of interference thin films aligned parallel to the table (see above). Viewed under fiber-optic lighting, the scene was reminiscent of fireworks lighting up the night sky. Internal graining, fluid fingerprints, needles, and particles were also found in the stone, combining to form a visually interesting pattern.

Ungkhana Atikarnsakul is a senior staff gemologist at GIA in Bangkok.

You Might Also Like

YMAL AJP
AJP®: New 5-Day Program Offered Worldwide
Learn About NextGem
GIA NextGem™ Diamond Training for Retail
Explore GIA Laboratory Promotional Offers
Explore GIA Laboratory Promotional Offers
Shop the GIA Store
Shop the GIA Store