Photoatlas of Inclusions in Gemstones. Volume 3

Connecting us to nature like nothing else can, the microworld of mineral and fluid inclusions in gems is fascinating, beautiful, and visually inspiring. Like the two volumes that came before it, Photoatlas of Inclusions in Gemstones: Volume 3 is a photographic expression of this varied and colorful world.

Beyond the visual appeal however, this micro realm is becoming increasingly important to those that need to recognize and separate treated stones and synthetics (which are available in quantity and have limited value as gems) from nature?s truly rare and valuable treasures. This current work discusses and illustrates the very latest discoveries of mineral and fluid inclusions in nature?s diamonds, sapphires, rubies, and emeralds. It also contrasts each of them with the micro-characteristics of their treatments and synthetics through the use of numerous detailed and colorful photomicrographs, all with an eye toward visual separation. Some extremely rare and unusual gems, such as kornerupine and taaffeite are also addressed and photographically detailed in Volume 3, further extending its appeal.

Many of those working with gem materials; both scientifically and commercially, find that the microscopic exploration of gems leading to the discovery and interpretation of inclusions is the most interesting field in all of gemmology. In the specialized world of microscopic gemstone analysis a picture truly is worth a thousand words. The literally thousands of colour images contained within the 3 volume Photoatlas series represent decades of exploration, research, and highly specialized photomicrographic documentation. Focusing on the gems that are most commercially important, and with chapters addressing some of natures more unusual gem minerals, Volume 3 in this series is a fitting culmination to those years of research.