The Specimen Library / Under the Loupe
Corundum / Ruby & Sapphire · Science
Aluminum oxide / mineral species and gem varieties
A closer look beyond the specimen label.
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The material, examined
What the name tells you
A mineral identity, a gem variety and a treatment determination are separate results. A star-like reflection also deserves examination; it is not, by itself, proof of a natural untreated gem.
A useful question at the counter
What has the report established: species, natural origin, treatment or geographic origin? Read its actual scope.
A note for your collection
Hardness does not remove every risk. Fractures, fillings, settings and composite construction can change appropriate cleaning.
Sources & further reading
References are labeled by role. A source documenting a belief is not evidence of a medical or mineralogical effect. Reflection prompts are C&C editorial suggestions.
Adjacent drawers
Related Specimens
The cabinet