The specimen’s sheer size posed unique analytical challenges, requiring an adaptive approach to ensure accurate identification
Mumbai: The Gemological Science International (GSI) examined and identified a 9.750-kilogram ruby in a specimen of the mineral Zoisite at its Jaipur laboratory recently.
The specimen’s sheer size posed unique analytical challenges, requiring an adaptive approach to ensure accurate identification. The examination was carried out by GSI Jaipur’s research team, led by Meenu Vyas, and leveraged advanced techniques to overcome these complexities, reinforcing the crucial role of precision-driven gemological certification.
Ruby in Zoisite, or Anyolite, is a striking composite gemstone where an opaque red ruby is naturally embedded in green Zoisite. While visually similar to ruby in Fuchsite, their structural and compositional differences necessitate detailed gemological analysis. Misidentification can lead to inaccuracies in valuation, emphasizing the importance of scientific verification in the trade.
Given the scale of the specimen, GSI modified its microscope set-up to accommodate the boulder, carefully examining the crystalline structure, twin planes, and characteristic rutile inclusions. However, to definitively confirm the composition, the team employed Raman Spectroscopy, a non-destructive technique that analyses molecular vibrations for precise differentiation of gemstones. Due to the specimen’s size, small grains were carefully extracted for analysis, providing conclusive spectral matches for ruby and zoisite.
“This case underscores the importance of utilizing state-of-the-art equipment for accurate gemstone identification, especially in challenging scenarios,” said Ramit Kapur, Managing Director, GSI India. “Scientific instrumentation, combined with expert gemological analysis, ensures that complex specimens are graded and certified with the highest accuracy, protecting both the trade and consumers.”
As Jaipur remains the global hub for coloured gemstones, GSI Jaipur continues to uphold gemological integrity, providing reliable and precise certification services to the global jewellery industry with cutting-edge technology and deep expertise.
Notably, Zoisite is a mineral that consists of a basic silicate of calcium and aluminum characteristic of regional metamorphism and of hydrothermal alteration of igneous rocks. Beyond its scientific significance, ruby in Zoisite is celebrated for its artistic versatility, often crafted into intricate carvings, decorative inlays and statement jewellery.
The GSI was founded in 2005 in New York City, and has grown to become one of the largest gemological laboratories in the world with facilities spanning four continents.
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