![]() Specifically, internal features and chemical composition of synthetic and natural corundum will be detailed, listing results of both natural and synthetic materials to fully understand the differences and confidently making an identification.For the sake of this article “Natural” will refer to unheated, and untreated gemstones unless otherwise stated.Ĭorundum is only composed of Aluminum Oxide (Al2O3) in its purest form and is called “white sapphire.” The red color of corundum, ruby is caused by chromium while the color in blue sapphire can be caused by iron and titanium (Gemmological Association of Great Britian 2009 D7). First the history and manufacturing process of synthetic corundum varieties will the reviewed, then identification techniques using classical and practical gemological techniques along with advanced testing will be covered. ![]() To attain a better understanding of identification it is important to have background knowledge of how these stones are grown. This project will highlight the heterogeneous synthetic processes of corundum. Trying to identify synthetic corundum with classical gemological techniques alone can be a challenging task, therefore understanding when to send a stone to a gem lab for further testing is essential. ![]() Too many synthetics have natural looking inclusions because of their growth process or treatments. Some gemologists can make a proper identification using classical techniques with enough experience yet, this is not enough in most cases, especially when dealing with corundum. Synthetics have a place in the jewelry industry so long as they are disclosed properly in the event they are not disclosed they need to be properly identified. These gemstones could have even been purchased second hand as a recycled item, mixed with parcels and all a buyer has is the word of their vendors. A gemstone is purchased and sold several times as it travels down the pipeline to the end consumer. Throughout history gemstones have been misrepresented Synthetic gemstone being sold as natural, and treatments go on undisclosed, most of the time this happens unintentionally.
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