OCTOBER

Flaws in Gems and Stones Revealed with UV Magnifier Lamp

The Spectroline^® Q-12NF ultraviolet magnifier lamp is designed to detect even the smallest flaws and repairs in gems and mineral specimens, as well as to categorize them by their origin and constituent materials.  The unit features long-wave UV (365 nm) and short-wave UV (254 nm) tubes, as well as a built-in magnifier lens that provides 3-power magnification.

As certain stones (such as marble, limestone and alabaster) age, their surfaces will take on a patina that appears a mottled white color under long-wave UV illumination.  Minerals that fluoresce under short-wave UV include scheelite (which generally appears pale blue) and scapolite (which usually glows a bright orange-yellow).  Fluorescence is used to reveal their origin, composition and classification.  Many heat-treated rubies and sapphires will display a chalky fluorescence under short-wave UV.

The Q-12NF has one 4-watt, integrally filtered long-wave tube and one 4-watt short-wave tube.  It also has a LONGLIFE™ filter glass that increases fluorescent contrast.

The lamp is lightweight —only 2 ¾ lbs. (1.2 kg).  It has a rugged handle attached to the housing by a friction-lock swivel joint for maximum flexibility and ease of use.  A pedestal stand for hands-free use and a spring-balanced flexible arm with a choice of three mounting brackets (wall, bench, or table mount) are available as accessories.